Joe Costello
Ceist:265 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if there is anything his Department can do to help persons; (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4319/03]
Written Answers. - Diplomatic Representation.
The person to whom the Deputy refers was arrested in Boston in January 2002 and charged with nine counts of armed and masked robbery. On 12 February 2003, he was convicted on six counts and sentenced to a minimum of five years imprisonment, with a maximum of five years and one day. The remaining three counts of armed and masked robbery have not yet been tried in the courts. I understand the person's attorney will meet the prosecutor and presiding judge in April to discuss a resolution of these matters.
The consulate general in Boston has been providing consular assistance to this person since his arrest and has been in contact with him on a number of occasions. The vice-consul met with the person's mother and sister in February 2002 and visited him in prison on 9 February 2003 to discuss his case. The vice-consul has also been in regular contact with the person's attorneys.
Once all charges have been dealt with, the person will be in a position to apply for a transfer to Ireland under the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. The consulate general will continue to monitor the case and to provide all possible consular assistance.