Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 380: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will contact appropriate Government officials in Botswana, requesting that the national police force of that country, investigate and inquire into the circumstance of the death of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35851/08]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

At the outset, I would like again to express my deepest sympathy to the family concerned. My Department became aware of the case mentioned by the Deputy in December 2006 and considerable consular assistance was provided, including assistance in the repatriation of the remains of the deceased. The authorities in Botswana conducted enquiries into the death of the deceased, following which a post mortem was held. A verdict of suicide was returned, with the cause of death stated to be due to haemorrhage and shock. Throughout that period, our Honorary Consul in Botswana remained in contact with the local authorities. However, the findings of the Botswana authorities are not accepted by one member of the family of the deceased.

Officials from the Consular Division have met with the family of the deceased and are, of course, ready to provide all appropriate further consular assistance to them.