Extradition Arrangements

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 March 2018

Tuesday, 27 March 2018

Ceisteanna (159)

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

159. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the arrest of a person (details supplied) in the Czech Republic on foot of an extradition warrant from the Turkish Government; his views on Turkey's use of extradition warrants to silence critics of the Turkish Government abroad; his further views on whether the person may be extradited to Turkey in which it is deemed that person's human rights will be violated; his plans to oppose the person's extradition to Turkey; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13753/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

I am aware of the case in question and I understand that proceedings in the Czech Republic have been halted since the individual concerned is no longer in that country. The execution of extradition warrants is a matter for the courts and it would not be appropriate for me, therefore, to comment on the merits of individual cases. The European Union is involved in a process of engagement and open dialogue with Turkey in areas of common interest and, as the Deputy will be aware, the EU-Turkey leaders’ meeting which took place in Varna, Bulgaria, yesterday included an assessment of recent developments in Turkey, including the rule of law and fundamental freedoms.