Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 November 2023
191. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if the attention of his Department has been drawn to a case (details supplied); the steps that the Department has taken to assist the family in this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50002/23]
View answerI can assure the Deputy that officials in my Department have been in regular contact with the Irish citizen in this case and are continuing to provide consular assistance and guidance.
I met the citizen recently and I fully appreciate that the circumstances of this case are difficult for all concerned. I have engaged with my counterpart in the jurisdiction on the case and the Embassy of Ireland has also engaged with the relevant Ministry of Justice on the matter and has provided advice to the citizen accordingly.
Departmental and Embassy officials have advised the citizen, since the case began, to engage with a local lawyer to best advise on the laws as they pertain to the jurisdiction in question. The Embassy of Ireland has also liaised with other EU Embassies, whose citizens have been in similar circumstances, in the context of the consular advice being given to the citizen.
I understand that the citizen recently held an introductory meeting with a mediation committee to explore options on resolving their case. The committee has provided clear guidance on the options available to the citizen and I welcome this development. I would advise the citizen to consider these options and appoint a lawyer who can advocate on their behalf locally.
The Department of Foreign Affairs cannot interfere in legal or custodial matters but my officials will continue to provide consular assistance to the citizen where possible and appropriate.
