Mark Daly (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I move:

That this committee send a delegation to Egypt to be present at the upcoming trial of Ibrahim Halawa on October 4th.

I have read the Chairman’s very comprehensive report. We discussed this issue before the summer during which it was highlighted by the Chairman’s visit and his meeting with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Egypt. There are outstanding issues such as clarification of the charges Mr. Halawa is facing. The Chairman has spoken on radio about seeking clarification from the Egyptian Ministry of the Interior and he might clarify this when he gives his report to the committee.

I believe some members are considering travelling to Egypt for the trial on 4 October and it is important that we have a delegation present. It may not be the final court hearing, but I understand Deputy Seán Crowe is to propose that those who do travel give evidence to the committee on the current situation, especially on the serious charges faced. We believe and Mr. Halawa’s legal team is of the opinion that he is still facing the death sentence, but the information from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is that he is not and that the charges have been reduced.

To assist any member who wishes to travel for the trial in October trial and visit Ibrahim in prison, I will relate my own experience. When I requested assistance in securing a visa and access to the prison, I was told by our ambassador in Egypt that it was a matter for the Egyptian ambassador.

When I sent the reply to the Egyptian ambassador, I was told by him that it is a matter for the Irish ambassador in Egypt. Correspondence went over and back for two weeks but I still do not have the answer. Even if the committee, its secretariat and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade assisted members who wish to go out by securing access, it would be of great assistance.