Tony Gregory
Ceist:98 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will contact the Brazilian authorities in support of the family of a deceased person (details supplied). [20264/01]
Written Answers. - Diplomatic Representation.
I take this opportunity to offer my sincere sympathy to the family of the deceased person who died in such tragic circumstances.
The Irish Honorary Consul in Rio de Janeiro has been in frequent and regular contact with the police investigating the circumstances of this person's death since her body was found on 11 June 2001. A man has confessed to having killed her. The Honorary Consul will obtain for the family copies of the police and other reports they have requested as soon as they are available.
To monitor the progress of the case from the point of view of a person familiar with Brazilian law and to have somebody who could act as their legal representative, we have recommended that the family engage one from a list of lawyers the Honorary Consul has given them.
My Department and the Honorary Consul will maintain contact with the police and other authorities in Brazil and will continue to give the family all appropriate assistance.