Vol. 470 No. 8
51 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has received a response to his representations concerning a Roman Catholic bishop (details supplied) who is a 75 year old prisoner of conscience in the People's Republic of China; if immediate medical treatment will be made available to him; if an unconditional release from detention will be forthcoming in respect of this person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19986/96]
I am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers. There have been conflicting reports about the conditions under which the bishop in question is held, including uncertainty as to whether he has in fact now been released from custody. If it can be established that the current facts of the case are as reported then I would share fully the Deputy's concern that all steps be taken by the Chinese authorities to provide urgently the necessary medical treatment for the serious illness which the bishop is reported to be suffering from.
