Human Rights Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 April 2014

Thursday, 3 April 2014

Ceisteanna (34)

Maureen O'Sullivan

Ceist:

34. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will engage with the American authorities in supporting the call for the release of the remaining Cuban five prisoners who have been imprisoned in the United States for over 15 years; if he will view this as a step in improving and opening relationships between Cuba and the United States; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15373/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

I am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers of the Cuban citizens imprisoned in the US. As this is a bilateral consular issue between the US and the Cuban authorities, the Government has no standing in the matter.