Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is regrettable that Deputy Ryan does not acknowledge the fact that there has been an element of momentum in recent times in this case. The trial is proceeding. I regret, however, that it has not yet concluded. I assure the Deputy that the European Union has been a strong ally of Ireland on this matter. I refer to my representations to Federica Mogherini and her role, in particular, as well as that of her colleagues in the Commission who have advocated strongly and consistently on our behalf with the Egyptian Government.

We have been pursuing the question of EU trial monitoring at local level in Cairo. This requires consensus among all member states represented in Egypt. I admit that such consensus does not exist currently but we are continuing to follow up actively on the matter. We have made representations to a number of EU member state governments and continue to work to achieve a consensus on the issue. As the Deputy will be aware and as I assure him again, this is the No. 1 priority consular case in my Department. We will continue to actively engage on the issue until such time as our Irish citizen is released and home with his family to resume his studies here in the city of Dublin.

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