Departmental Correspondence

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 December 2014

Thursday, 11 December 2014

Questions (166)

Brendan Smith

Question:

166. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if assistance will be provided by his Department to the proprietors of an Irish company (details supplied) that has had for a number of years ongoing and serious business difficulties abroad; if he will ensure that the interests of this family will be pursued with the relevant authorities in that country as outlined in correspondence; if recent correspondence forwarded to his Department since the reply to the previous parliamentary question will be given urgent consideration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47532/14]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

This case is currently under consideration in the United Arab Emirates’ legal system. As such, my Department is restricted in what it can appropriately do and it may be more helpful for the family to seek expert advice from their lawyers.

Nevertheless, officials of my department both in Dublin and at the Embassy in Abu Dhabi, will continue to monitor the situation and offer consular assistance as appropriate. Should any material updates be received by the Embassy from the relevant authorities of the United Arab Emirates, the information will be forwarded to the family immediately.

Recent correspondence which I have received from the Deputy on this matter has been given due consideration and the Deputy may expect an early response to this correspondence.