Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, RISE)
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146. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade in relation to a case (details supplied), if he will request confirmation as to why the Irish Consulate are suggesting that this person physically represents themselves; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29674/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I 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.

The local Embassy of Ireland has engaged with the relevant Ministry of Justice on the matter and has provided advice to the citizen accordingly. Should the citizen wish to pursue formal mediation through the established mechanisms, it is advisable that they appoint a local lawyer to represent them and to act on their behalf. The Department of Foreign Affairs cannot represent individuals in any formal mediation or legal proceedings, and this has been made clear.

The formal mediation process also enables the concerned individual, if so desired, to attend the mediation process in-person, as has been done in other such cases in that country. However, to be clear, this is at the citizen's own discretion - and we are aware of the citizen's reservations in that regard.

Please rest assured that my Department will continue to provide support, assistance and guidance to the citizen where possible and appropriate.