Vol. 574 No. 3
18 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reports or information he has received from the consular officer who has attended the trial of three Irish men facing serious charges in Colombia; when the trial is expected to resume; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26720/03]
The concluding oral session of the trial took place from 28 July to 1 August 2003. Closing arguments were heard from the prosecutor, the defence and the representative of the procurator general. The three men also appeared in court and made statements. The ambassador to Colombia acted as my official representative at this session and his report has been considered carefully in my Department. The trial has now ended and the decision of the judge is awaited. The Deputy will appreciate that, pending the delivery of the judge's decision, it would not be appropriate for me to make any comment on this case. I can assure the Deputy that my Department will continue to follow this case closely and to provide all possible consular assistance to the men.
