Vol. 426 No. 5
65 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the case of persons (details supplied) who have been held in custody for almost two years in the North of Ireland; and if he will make representations to the British Authorities to have this matter brought to trial.
I can confirm to the Deputy that this case has been raised with the British authorities through the framework of the Anglo-Irish Conference. In relation to all such cases we have stressed to the British authorities the importance of ensuring that the rights of those in custody are fully protected and that those charged with offences are brought to trial with the minimum possible delay.
The British Government announced last year measures aimed at shortening periods spent on remand. It is too early to judge the effectiveness of these measures but the Deputy can be assured that we will continue to monitor closely developments in this area, including with regard to the case referred to in his question.
