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Irish Prisoners Abroad.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 December 2004

Tuesday, 14 December 2004

Questions (160)

Michael Lowry

Question:

181 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the plight of a person (details supplied) imprisoned in the UK; if he will raise the matter with the British Prime Minister; his strategy to ensure the release of the person involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33414/04]

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Written answers

I am aware of this case and, on my instructions, the case continues to be closely monitored by my Department through the Irish Embassy in London. The embassy in London remains in contact with both the person himself and his solicitor. A diplomatic officer from the embassy made a recent visit on 25 November 2004 to him at HMP Gartree. I understand he informed the diplomatic officer that he is receiving treatment for his medical problems at an outside hospital, that the treatment is ongoing and that the prison authorities are fully responsive and helpful in this regard. I also understand that the solicitor is still seeking appropriate grounds on which either to lodge an appeal against conviction or to seek to have the case reopened. This is against the background where the person in question pleaded guilty at his original trial and was given a mandatory sentence. I can assure the Deputy that my Department will continue to keep in contact with the person concerned, his solicitor and his family, and to provide all appropriate consular assistance and advice. I will consider whether there is any further action that I might take when the legal position has been clarified.

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