Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

All of us recognise what the officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade have been doing both in headquarters here and in the embassy. I also recognise the work of the Minister, Deputy Charles Flanagan, who takes a hands-on approach to issues.

Senator Daly made it clear in his comments that he recognises the work of the Minister, Deputy Flanagan, and the officials concerned. However, Senator Daly also outlined that the intervention at Head of Government level by two countries had the desired effect. If a contact from the Taoiseach can help to advance the cause to have Ibrahim released as quickly as possible, it would support the work of the Minister, not cut across it. From that point of view it would be an important intervention.