Finian McGrath
Ceist:1052 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will clarify a matter (details supplied). [30579/08]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 24 September 2008
Ceisteanna (963, 964)
Pádraic McCormack
Ceist:1056 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he and the Government have satisfied themselves with the assurances given by the US administration that aircraft using Irish airports are not being used for the transport of detainees or prisoners. [30650/08]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 1052 and 1056 together.
As has been made repeatedly clear, the Government is completely opposed to the practice of the extraordinary rendition of prisoners. The Government has received specific assurances from the US authorities that such prisoners have not been transferred through Irish territory, nor would they be, without our permission. These assurances have been confirmed at the highest level, including by Secretary of State Rice to my predecessor as Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Dermot Ahern T.D., and by President Bush to the former Taoiseach. The assurances are of a clear and categoric nature, relating to facts and circumstances within the full knowledge and control of the US Government. I am satisfied that it is appropriate for the Government to rely fully on these assurances.
Question No. 1053 answered with Question No. 1042.