Human Rights

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 January 2015

Thursday, 22 January 2015

Questions (19)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

19. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the measures he is taking to secure the release of Irish teenager Ibrahim Halawa, a prisoner of conscience, detained with 493 others in Egypt following protests in August 2013, in view of the fact that their trial has been postponed for a third time and the communications this Government has had, including responses with the Egyptian regime in addition to representations made at EU level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2657/15]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

I remain deeply concerned at this individual’s continued detention as well as the recent further postponement of his trial.

Previous PQs have set out my approach to this case in some details and the steps taken. Most recently I discussed the case with EU High Representative Mogherini in Dublin on 12 January. She confirmed that the EU and its institutions would continue to assist in this case.

I would like to take this opportunity to assure the Deputy that my officials will continue to provide consular assistance to this individual and his family, and will continue to work on this difficult case with a view to securing a review of the individual’s case, his release and return to his family.