asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will clarify the status and outcome of the recent diplomatic activity concerning Brian Keenan by the Irish Envoy to Syria and Saudi Arabia; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Brian Keenan Release Efforts.
32.
I have outlined to the Dáil on several occasions the efforts of the Government to obtain information on the welfare and whereabouts of Mr. Brian Keenan and to secure his safe release. As a result of reports last month about the position of western hostages in Lebanon, including Mr. Keenan, Ireland's Ambassador to Lebanon (who is resident in Baghdad) travelled to Beirut where he had discussions with a wide range of contacts. Ireland's Ambassador to Syria (who is resident in Riyadh and was in Damascus at the time on official business) discussed the hostage issue with the Syrian authorities and repeated the Government's request for any assistance the Syrian authorities might be able to provide. Among others he met the Syrian Foreign Minister and was assured of Syria's readiness to help. The Government's efforts on behalf of Mr. Keenan are continuing.