UN: Govts should not ignore CIA rendition flights

The UN High Commissioner has said it's unacceptable for countries to turn a blind eye to extra-ordinary rendition flights.

Louise Arbour made the comments while visiting the Irish Human Rights Commission.

She also remarked that governments shouldn't rely on diplomatic assurances if there is a risk of torture.

The IRHC has welcomed the comments, in the wake of the controversy over CIA rendition flights stopping over at Shannon.

Earlier this week, Amnesty International called on the Government to carry out detailed investigations into the Shannon stopovers.