Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The next hearing of this case is scheduled for 29 June. Embassy officials will be in attendance, as they have been at every hearing over the course of his trial. They will monitor and report on the developments of the day. It is my hope that this matter will be completed in its entirety on that day, although I do not have absolute control over the listing or hearing of court cases in the jurisdiction of Egypt.

I do not believe there is any deliberate intent on the part of the Egyptian authorities to mislead us in regard to the whereabouts of the citizen. There are serious security issues in Egypt. Since the beginning of this year, 48 members of the security forces have been killed and the law and order situation is somewhat challenging and fragile. I ask the House to acknowledge the fact that prison moves are regularly made for operational reasons. Information is never provided in advance in order to ensure the safety and security of prisoners and personnel. I assure the Deputy that I have raised this matter with the ambassador and will continue to raise our concerns about a range of issues relating to this case.

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