Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 28 Nov 2000

Vol. 526 No. 6

Written Answers. - Human Rights Abuses.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

147 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the circumstances of a Chinese national (details supplied) who is being detained in a labour camp in China for practising Falun Gong; and if he will make representations to the Chinese Ambassador and the Chinese Premier seeking his immediate release. [27421/00]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

I am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers. It has been the subject of several previous questions, including one to which the Taoiseach replied on 27 January, as well as others to which I have replied.

The individual is an active member of the body known as Falun Gong, which was banned by the Chinese authorities in July 1999. According to information received by my Department, on his return to China before last Christmas, he actively sought out and engaged in Falun Gong related activities and was arrested by the Chinese authorities. On his release from detention, he again sought out and resumed these activities and was re-arrested.

The individual is a Chinese citizen and therefore subject to the laws of China while in that country, including those in respect of Falun Gong. As he is not an Irish citizen, Ireland has no consular function in this matter.