Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. O'Gorman. For the record, I wish to state that the committee is very concerned about Ibrahim Halawa. All members are united on that score. This young man was arrested at 17 years of age and is now 19. He has been incarcerated for the intervening period and has experienced a very difficult time. Obviously, he is frustrated and wants to continue with his education. The committee has monitored and highlighted his case, has discussed it week after week and has been in contact with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, from which we receive a weekly update on Ibrahim's welfare, in respect of it. Of course, his welfare is extremely important.

I have raised it at every level, including with the Taoiseach and the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. My understanding is there have been 42 consular visits by staff of the Irish embassy in Cairo to Ibrahim in prison. We have requested that a committee delegation visit him. I understand the request is pending with the Egyptian authorities. I have met the Egyptian ambassador on this and we are awaiting a reply. We are concerned and we will continue to highlight this case. Does Mr. O'Gorman think this is the best way? I am sure the Egyptian authorities are well aware of the concerns of the Government, the committee, and NGOs. It will be on our agenda week after week. We will take on Mr. O'Gorman's recommendations to write to the external action committee to highlight the case and to the EU ambassador in Cairo. We will do what we can to continue to highlight this case and to be vocal on his behalf as he awaits his trial in August. Hopefully, the case can be heard in August.