Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 June 2005
47 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding the application by a person (details supplied) to reside here; the Government’s likely response to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18481/05]
View answerI am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers and I share the widely held concerns about it. The person concerned was placed under a number of restrictions as a condition of his release from prison in 2004 at the end of the prison sentence which he had served. These restrictions include a prohibition on him leaving Israel, and on contacting the media and foreign governments. I understand the person concerned is awaiting the outcome of proceedings brought against him in December relating to breaches of the conditions under which he was released.
The Government has consistently been of the view that the person concerned should not be subjected to the restrictions which were imposed and the government of Israel is aware of this position. However, the restrictions have been the subject of judicial review by the Israeli Supreme Court, which concluded that they are not incompatible with the Israeli Government's obligations in respect of its citizens. I do not think that there is any likelihood that the Israeli Government will overturn the court's decision. The Government will continue to monitor the situation.
