Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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750. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will support a number of new unexplored legal options, to secure the release of a person (details supplied) in Egypt; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29084/15]

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has a very clear strategy in place for this consular case, and is focused on achieving a positive outcome at the earliest time possible. That strategy is based on two clear objectives: firstly to see this individual released by the Egyptian authorities so that he can return to his family and his studies in Ireland and, secondly, to provide consular support for his welfare while he remains in detention. The Government has already formally supported applications by the citizen’s legal team for both release on bail and release under the Presidential decree on foreign prisoners. However, any decision to release him will ultimately be taken by the Egyptian authorities.

I am aware of various submissions that have been made to the Department and the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade by NGOs and law firms, advocating a more adversarial and legalistic approach. My Department has always been cognisant of the international legal framework that may be relevant to this case. While the legal submissions received will of course be considered, all action taken by the Department will be guided by our ongoing consideration of what stands the best chance of contributing to positive progress for the Irish citizen at the earliest possible time.

It is the Government's considered view, supported by decades of diplomatic experience in other consular cases and extensive consultation with states which have had citizens in similar circumstances, that the firm and measured diplomatic approach we are taking remains, at this time, this individual’s best hope for return to Ireland at the earliest possible date. In this context, the Deputy will appreciate how important it is that we continue to maintain good bilateral relations with Egypt.