Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)

Does the Minister of State agree that in regard to our international obligations there is no requirement on a citizen to produce evidence? The demand for compliance falls on the State. Is he not concerned that all of those who are interested in the implementation of the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, the UN committee, the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, the European Parliament, and everyone involved in the campaign against torture, have said that diplomatic assurances are insufficient on this important matter? It is a red herring to suggest the onus is on the citizen. Does the Minister of State agree? In his response to the questionnaire supplied to the Council of Europe he correctly stated the Air Navigation and Transport Act 1988 and the Air Navigation and Transport (Amendment) Act 1998 allowed for inspections. He did not state, however, that not one single inspection resulted. Does he agree that compliance requires inspection and the responsible implementation of the State's obligations? One cannot substitute an unfair obligation on citizens.

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