Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate the update from the Tánaiste and acknowledge the work he and his officials are doing regarding the case of Mr. Tony Taylor. The concerns around this case, while predominately emanating from the nationalist and republican constituency, extend throughout a broad spectrum of humanitarian and legal organisations as well as the legal profession in general. This is effectively a case of internment via remand, which warrants a great deal of concern.

I appreciate the Tánaiste's comment that his officials are keeping a watching brief on the issue. His statement will be welcomed by all those inside and outside the Oireachtas who have an interest in the case. I also share his concern regarding recent indications of a delay in the case, whether intentional or otherwise. Is this position satisfactory? What measures can the Tánaiste take above and beyond monitoring the issue? I am not asking him to step outside the constraints within which he must operate.

I was reminded on my journey from Belfast to Dublin this morning that the average period of internment for those interned between 1971 and 1975 was two years. Tony Taylor now finds himself in prison without evidence being put to him or his legal team for more than two years. I thank the Tánaiste again for taking the time to come to the House.