Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Darragh O'Brien also raised the plight of sufferers of multiple sclerosis. There seems to be light at the end of the tunnel in that regard. I note his points in relation to the HSE, the Department and the need to come clean with information before the House when information is being imparted to Members.

I note the comments made by Senator Bacik about hate crime and the possibility of legislation in that regard. As Senator Mac Conghail mentioned, we have had a debate on this matter previously. I am sure we can arrange a further debate on it in the autumn.

I remind Senator Mac Conghail that I gave a comprehensive reply last week on the case of Ibrahim Halawa.I assure him that the Government is doing everything possible to secure the release of this Irish citizen. The next hearing in the case is scheduled to take place on 2 August and the Irish Embassy's officials will attend. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade officials in Dublin and in Cairo will continue to work actively behind the scenes to do everything possible to facilitate positive progress on this case as early as circumstances permit. Embassy officials visited Mr. Halawa for the 42nd time on Wednesday, 24 June last, and the Taoiseach and the Minister, Deputy Charles Flanagan, met the Halawa family on 4 June. There is a high level of consular visitation, which is an important and practical tool in monitoring Mr. Halawa's welfare and ensuring that the embassy in Cairo is well placed to raise any concerns directly with the prison authorities. The Department has received correspondence from a firm of solicitors regarding the Halawa case in recent days and that is currently being considered.

The Minister, Deputy Charles Flanagan, and the Department are maintaining extensive contacts with the Egyptian authorities and with other international partners that have had citizens in similar circumstances. Examining other similar cases, it is clear that irrespective of any political efforts made by foreign governments, including high level requests, the other trials were completed before any political consideration of a possible release by the Egyptian authorities took place. In Mr. Halawa's case, the trial is still ongoing. While we continue to maintain extensive contacts with the Egyptian authorities, including at very high levels, the precedents examined to date suggest that it is unrealistic to expect that a release will take place before the initial trial concludes. I assure Senator Mac Conghail that the Government is doing everything it can to secure Mr. Halawa's release.

I note the points made by Senator Norris about the Beit paintings and the suggestion that they go on loan to the Hugh Lane municipal gallery. It is a wonderful suggestion and I will bring it to the attention of the Minister. Obviously it will be a decision for the board but it is something it should certainly consider. The paintings were donated to be viewed by the Irish people and that would be an opportunity for it to happen. I compliment Senator Norris on the suggestion and I hope it will be taken up.