Barry Andrews
Question:260 Deputy Barry Andrews asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the application for refugee status of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17586/08]
View answerThursday, 8 May 2008
Questions (260)
Written answers
I understand the person concerned to be an Uzbek national currently detained in the United States detention centre at Guantánamo, Cuba, since his capture by United States defence forces in Afghanistan in 2001.
The Government has repeatedly stated its desire to see the United States Administration take steps to release or bring to trial all detainees in accordance with established legal norms, and to close Guantánamo Bay as soon as possible.
Ireland has raised the issue of the detainees in Guantánamo Bay with the US authorities on numerous occasions. In all contacts with the US authorities, Ireland has been assured that the US is aware of its obligations under international law.
It is a matter for the United States Government to make arrangements for the return of individuals whom it has retained at Guantánamo to their countries of origin or elsewhere as may be agreed with third States willing to host individual detainees on their release. Were the United States Government to approach the Irish Government in relation to Mr. Jabbarov, the ultimate decision would lie with the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, whose Department has responsibility for the reception and integration of refugees and asylum seekers. I am arranging for a copy of this reply and some background material to go to that Department.