asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government has protested to the American Government in relation to attacks by Contras on international volunteers working in Nicaragua; and if he will outline the Government's position in relation to this matter.
Written Answers. - Attacks on Volunteers in Nicaragua.
28.
Mr. Cowen
The Government is concerned that international volunteers engaged in humanitarian work in Nicaragua should not be subjected to attacks by armed forces. I am happy to say that eight German volunteers kidnapped on 17 May 1986 were released on 10 June as a result of sustained but quiet diplomatic pressure. I am satisfied that this approach to the safety of volunteers in Nicaragua is a productive one.
The personal safety of all individuals in any part of the Central American region will continue to be hazardous as long as a political settlement to the problems of the region remains outstanding. In common with our European partners we have in the past given active support to the Contadora process for peace and reconciliation in Central America. The Community will continue to support and encourage the Contadora process which in our view offers the best possibilities of securing a just and durable peace in the region.