1st October 2002

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1st October 2002

McElduff to attend trial of three Irishmen being held in Colombia

Sinn Fein MLA for West Tyrone Barry McElduff is travelling to Colombia this evening for a seven day visit, to act as an observer at the opening of the trial of three Irishmen currently being held in the country. While there he will also visit the three men.

Speaking prior to his departure Mr. McElduff said:

``I am travelling to Colombia, at the request of the mens families and the Bring Them Home Campaign, to act as an observer as the trial of Jim Monaghan, Martin McCauley and Niall Connolly.

``For some time now Sinn Fein has been voicing our concern at the continued detention of the three men and the fact that their right to a fair legal process is being denied. We are also greatly concerned about the safety of the men and the fact that their lives are at serious risk.

``Along with representatives of the Irish government and human rights organisations I will be observing the trial and supporting the demand for fairness and justice. I also endorse calls for the speedy release of the men and their return home to their families.''

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