Vol. 571 No. 2
166 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the latest reports or information he has received from the consular officer who has attended the trial of three Irish persons facing serious charges in Colombia; if he has information as to when the trial is expected to resume; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21084/03]
The concluding 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 Irish ambassador to Colombia acted as my official representative at this session and his report has been considered carefully in my Department including at the legal level. The trial has now ended and the judge is expected to deliver his verdict in the coming months. The Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to make any comment on the proceedings at the present time. I assure the Deputy that my Department will continue to follow this case closely and to provide all possible consular assistance to the men.
Question No. 167 answered with Question No. 114. Question No. 168 answered with Question No. 155.
