Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Question 107: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has made inquiries with the Egyptian authorities regarding the whereabouts of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19076/08]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers. The person concerned was detained in connection with the alleged promotion of a general strike in Egypt on 6 April. I understand that she was released without charge on 23 April, following an instruction by the Public Prosecutor of Egypt.

The Government continues to monitor the human rights situation in Egypt through our Embassy in Cairo, and in consultation with a range of Egyptian NGOs. As the Deputy will be aware, we share the widespread concern about moves over the past year which would limit the freedom of expression which is essential to the development of a democratic society. The Government and our EU partners will continue to raise our concerns about human rights issues in the dialogue with the Egyptian Government, which was enhanced by the adoption last year of the Action Plan under the European Neighbourhood Policy. We will also continue to raise issues of concern directly with the Egyptian Government.