Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 2 Apr 1996

Vol. 463 No. 6

Written Answers. - Imprisonment Concern.

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

105 Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has raised the case of a person (details supplied), who is currently a prisoner in HMP Swaleside, Kent, England, with the British authorities; if he has expressed the serious concerns that many people have in relation to this person's conviction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7006/96]

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring)

I am aware of the widespread concern about the continued imprisonment of this individual.

The embassy in London is monitoring developments and has visited this person several times, the last occasion being 26 February 1996. His solicitor has made a detailed written submission to the Home Office asking that his case be reopened, that is, referred back to the Court of Appeal. The embassy has also raised the matter directly with the Home Office and has asked that consideration of the case be expedited. The Home Office has assured the embassy that the submission will be examined as quickly as possible.

The embassy will remain in close contact with the Home Office as well as with the person concerned and his legal representatives and will continue to give what assistance and support they can.