Bernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 434: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has been in contact with the Libyan Government regarding the death sentence imposed on a group of Bulgarian medics; and if so, the outcome of his contacts. [11250/07]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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Ireland has from the outset of this case given very firm support to the Bulgarian Government in its efforts to resolve this issue. I issued a statement condemning the decision in the retrial by the Libyan Court on 19 December 2006. We have pressed the issue at EU level on many occasions. I discussed this case with my EU colleagues at the General Affairs and External Relations Council on 22 January. The Council expressed its grave concern over the unacceptable verdict of the Criminal Court in Libya. The Council also called for the urgent conclusion of the judicial process according to internationally accepted standards. The EU expects the Libyan authorities to ensure that a positive, fair and prompt solution is brought to this case, leading expeditiously to the release of the medical workers. We again discussed this case on 12 February.

The Bulgarian Government is fully aware of the Irish Government's support, for which it has expressed its deep appreciation. The Government is in regular close contact with the Bulgarian authorities, and also with appropriate Palestinian officials, as a Palestinian is also involved. It appears that there are some legal avenues still available, and an appeal has been lodged. We will continue in every way possible to actively support the efforts to secure the release of the personnel involved.