Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will again make it clear that the Egyptian Government is in absolutely no doubt about the position of the Irish Government. The Taoiseach has made our views absolutely clear and it was interesting that the response of President el-Sisi to members of the delegation was the same response that was received by the Taoiseach following his intercession and contact with President el-Sisi. That point has been made perfectly clear by the Egyptians.

I acknowledged the importance of the Ceann Comhairle's delegation and I look forward to receiving a formal report. I know there are a number of issues raised in the report because I have had the opportunity to speak to a number of members of the delegation since their return. I assure the Deputy that on receipt of that report from the Ceann Comhairle I will be very anxious to see what way the Irish Government can continue to assist. The next trial date is 14 February. I have been speaking in recent weeks directly to my counterpart, Foreign Minister Shoukry, with regard to European involvement. I have raised the issue on a number of occasions with the EU High Representative, Federica Mogherini, who has made representations on behalf of the European Union, and I have engaged directly with the chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the European Parliament. I have also raised the issue bilaterally in the context of my meetings with other foreign affairs Ministers in cases where I have felt their engagement might be helpful in the circumstances. I would be happy, having regard to the importance of the delegation, to keep the House fully informed of developments.

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