Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The specific case to which the Deputy refers is that of Ibrahim Halawa, on which we have been engaged in some detail for many months. It exemplifies the high level of attention and engagement that is often required of the consular services. My Department and I are monitoring the case very closely. Last week I again raised the issue with Ms Federica Mogherini, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, who has undertaken to raise it with the relevant authorities. There have been very few cases, over a long period of time, that have seen such a level of engagement by our team of officials in Cairo.

I continue to raise my concerns directly with the Egyptian authorities and have met the Minister on at least three occasions. I was somewhat disappointed to learn that the case was adjourned at a recent hearing. Deputy Durkan and others are very much aware of the concerns in this case, which I hope will be resolved at an early date in a manner that can be regarded as satisfactory and allows the individual concerned to return home.