Michael D. Higgins
Ceist:50 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the present position in relation to his efforts to secure the release of Brian Keenan.
Written Answers. - Brian Keenan Case.
Since my last statement to the House on 24 October regarding the sad case of Brian Keenan I have discussed the case with the Egyptian and Tunisian Foreign Ministers and representatives of the Palestine Liberation Organisation when I visited North Africa in November. I have also maintained contact through official channels with the Iranian Foreign Minister, Dr. Velayati, whom I met in New York last September.
The Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Seán Calleary, also raised Mr. Keenan's case with Iranian Foreign Minister Dr. Velayati when they met in New York in December. I would take this opportunity to reassure the House that I will continue to follow Mr. Keenan's case closely and take any steps which may be helpful in securing his prompt release and his return to his family.