Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 441: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the action he has initiated at EU and UN level with a view to investigation into the assassination in Burundi of a person (details supplied); if persons have been apprehended following the shooting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10142/05]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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Since the events of 29 December 2003, my Department has been endeavouring to establish the full circumstances of the ambush which led to Archbishop Michael Courtney's tragic death. My predecessor, the former Minister for Foreign Affairs Deputy Cowen, discussed this issue on a number of occasions with both the President and Foreign Minister of Burundi, most recently on 21 September 2004 when he met the President in New York at the United Nations General Assembly. The Government was also presented in February 2004 with the results of the initial investigation conducted by the Burundian authorities. This report, which was presented simultaneously to the Holy See, was provided in confidence to the Government and to the Holy See. Ongoing contact has also been maintained throughout between my Department and the Holy See.

Arising from the investigation by the Burundian authorities, an individual, said to have suffered serious injury during the ambush which resulted in Archbishop Courtney's murder, was arrested in February 2004. My Department has learnt that the suspect has since died in custody. The Burundian authorities have assured us they are continuing to pursue others who they believe may have been involved in the ambush.

The Government remains in close contact with and seeks regular updates from the Burundi authorities regarding developments in the investigation. We will continue to urge that all efforts are made on their part to apprehend those responsible for the Archbishop's murder. I also will seriously consider the issue of official representation, in the event that any trial eventually takes place.