asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps the Government are taking to ensure that a priest Fr. Niall O'Brien in the Philippines, who is an Irish citizen, is not being ill-treated by a foreign government or being deprived of full liberty on trumped up charges.
Written Answers. - Irish Priest in Philippines.
378.
I recently raised this case with the Foreign Minister of the country concerned and took the opportunity to impress upon him and upon his Government our concern over this matter and in particular our concern that the proceedings be completed as quickly as possible. I felt it appropriate to make this direct personal approach in addition to the other official representations which have been made and continue to be made through appropriate channels.
I am continuing to monitor developments in this case very closely and I can assure the Deputy that I am prepared to take whatever steps may be necessary to safeguard the welfare of the Irish citizen concerned.