The Gorey Guardian, Wednesday, June 25, 1997


Yates takes up the case of Odhran Fortune.

Minister for Agricultre Ivan Yates has rallied his colleagues in the outgoing goverment in an effort to launch a full and wide ranging probe into the affairs of the Church of Scientology in Ireland.The Fortune family of Main Street, Gorey, met with Minister Yates last week and outlined their position to him regarding the disapperance of Odhran from Courtown Harbour on June 1 last.

In a written statement last week, Minister Yates indicated that a number of goverment departments have now been briefed on the plight of the Fortune family and an investigation, on a number of fronts, into the activities of the Church of Scientology could get under way soon once the new goverment forms and the matter is raised in the Dail. Mr. Yates wrote to the family telling them that he had liaised with Brendan Howlin and had discussed their case. He also stated that he had made written representations to Nora Owen, Minister for Justice, and has asked Mary Benotti M.E.P. to try to get any information she can on the Church of Scientology at European level. Furthermore, Mr. Yates informed the family that he has asked Minister Owen, in conjunction with the Garda authorities, to look at the question of an investigation into the Church of Scientology and it's activities in Ireland.

In a display of Mr. Yates determination to assist the Fortune family in any way he can, he revealed that he has also taken the step of writing to the Minister of Finance to clarify the charity status of the Church to see if their tax affairs are in order. Mr. Yates concludes his letter by saying he will be in touch with the family as soon as he has further word. The Minister's letter is the most clear indication to date that Odhran Fortune's case looks likely to be taken up in the Dail when it reconvenes shortly.

Meanwhile, Odhran's case is continuing to gain worldwide media Attention with a "Free Odhran Fortune Day", scheduled to take place around the world this Saturday, June 28, when people are being asked to march. It is understood that a march is being organised in Gorey this Saturday but exact details were not available at the time of writing. Meanwhile, since last week the Fortune family have only had a very brief conversation with Odhran. Speaking on Tuesday morning, Odhran's brother Diarmuid said their campaign will continue.




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