Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 222: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the actions he has taken in relation to the recent case in Saudi Arabia in which a young rape victim was sentenced to 200 lashes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35823/07]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I shared the strong public concern about this appalling case. I was shocked by the sentences and by the context in which they were imposed. I regard any punishment by flogging as abhorrent, no matter where it takes place. Our overriding objective in making our views clearly heard on the issue was to ensure that the sentence was not carried out. I therefore very much welcome the announcement that King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia has pardoned the victim, recognising the trauma already suffered.

As soon as I became aware of the case, I directed my officials to consult with our EU partners on the most effective possible intervention in the interests of the victims. We joined with partners in agreeing an immediate approach to the Saudi authorities, expressing our strong concerns. On behalf of the EU, the Portuguese Presidency raised the case with the Saudi Foreign Ministry, stressing our shock at the severity of the sentence, and the imperative need in such cases for physical and psychological support for the victims. The Presidency also emphasised the huge public concern about this case across the EU. Last week, I personally conveyed my concerns about the case to the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia.

It is noteworthy that the verdict of the court in this case was also the subject of widespread discussion and publicly expressed disquiet within Saudi Arabia. This would have been highly unlikely a few years ago and in itself represents something of a positive development in relation to the human rights situation.