CELTIC LEAGUE: CONCERN EXPRESSED OVER IRISHMAN HELD BY LITHUANIA
The Celtic League is continuing to press the Irish government over the situation of Michael Campbell being held in Lithuania. The Lithuanian prison system has an appalling record and has been criticised by the Council of Europe prison 'watchdog' the CPT.
"Micheál Martin TD Minister for Foreign Affairs
18/11/08
Dear Micheál Martin TD
Concern for Michael Campbell,
I am writing to express concern about the wellbeing of Irishman, Michael Campbell, who is currently being held in prison in Lithuania.
Mr Campbell was arrested, as part of an entrapment operation, involving British Intelligence operatives and the Lithuanian police, in Vilnius on January 2008, for possibly buying cigarettes with the intention of selling them abroad. He has also been accused of being involved in arms purchases for the Real IRA. Mr Campbell has not yet been formally charged for any offence and we are aware that under Lithuanian law he can be detained as such for up to 18 months.
Our primary concern with Mr Campbell's detention is the poor conditions that he is purportedly being kept under. He has to share a small cell with three other prisoners, with which he has to share one 'hole in the ground' toilet and is locked up for the biggest part of the day. Moreover Mr Campbell has been prevented from seeing or speaking with members of his family (in contrast to his other fellow prisoners), who have even been prevented from attending one of his court remands.
Mr Campbell's case is receiving high profile media attention in Lithuania and it seems clear that there are domestic and international political considerations affecting the judicial process and his fair and equal treatment. As you know the Lithuanian criminal justice system has been heavily criticised in the past by the Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT) and we would like your department to intervene on Mr Campbell's behalf to ensure that he is given a fair trial according to EU law and that none of his rights as an Irish citizen are infringed upon.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely
Rhisiart Tal-e-bot General Secretary
CC
Mr Eugenijus GEFENAS, CPT Member in respect of Lithuania"
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J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League 19/11/08
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