Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 January 2022
349. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has sought assistance from the European Commission in respect of the continuing detention of a person (details supplied); if not, if he will engage with the Commission for the purpose of securing its assistance in seeking the release of the person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3470/22]
View answerThere has been extensive engagement on the referenced case at the most senior political and diplomatic levels. I can assure the Deputy that all possible efforts continue to be made through multiple channels – by myself as Minister and at senior political levels here in Dublin; as well as by our diplomats in Beijing, Shanghai and elsewhere throughout our diplomatic network.
This includes my discussions with the Chinese Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Wang Yi, when I met him in May during my visit to China, as well as my correspondence since then with the Minister reiterating my continuing serious concern about the case. There has also been communication at the Head of Government level by An Taoiseach.
In all cases, our engagement has stressed the urgent importance of the citizen being allowed to return home as soon as possible. In the meantime, the Department of Foreign Affairs has been providing ongoing consular advice, support and assistance to the citizen concerned.
As with all consular cases, it would not be appropriate to discuss the specific details of the case, nor to comment publicly on any matters raised that are related to it.
