Noel Treacy (Galway East, Fianna Fail)

I assure the Senator that I will discuss the matter with the Minister for Foreign Affairs who is currently in the United States of America to carry out very important work. He will not be back until later in the week. A General Affairs and External Relations Council will soon take place at which we will discuss what strategy can be formulated to raise the issue with the Government of Zimbabwe through the European Union. I would have no difficulty whatsoever with sending a direct message to Mr. Mugabe to call on him to recognise the rights of elected people, release Mr. Bennett from prison, allow him to stand for election and provide open, free and fair elections to the people of his country. That is what they deserve and expect. I will discuss the matter and if it accords with proper diplomatic communication forms, I will be only too delighted to execute it.