Tommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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270. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on the current negotiations between the Government and the Egyptian authorities relating to the well-being of a person (details supplied); the measures he is taking on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15119/17]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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This matter is an urgent priority for the Government and exceptional levels of resources are being devoted to the provision of consular support to the citizen and his family.

My Department does everything possible to monitor the health and welfare of this citizen and we have at all times emphasised the need to protect his health and welfare directly with the Egyptian authorities. I raised the issue with Minister Shoukry earlier this month. Following representations from the Irish Embassy, the Court ordered a medical assessment of this citizen at a hearing in this case in December. A further assessment was ordered at the most recent hearing on 22 March. It is important that these medical assessments take place.

I am disturbed by recent reports about this young man’s health and I am seeking urgent clarification in this regard.

We have made it clear to the Egyptian authorities that we hold them responsible for ensuring this citizen’s welfare by carrying out regular medical checks and providing all required medical treatment. The Egyptian authorities have consistently given us assurances on these points.

The Government maintains open lines of communication at all levels with the Egyptian Government.

Our Embassy in Cairo has undertaken an exceptionally high number of consular visits to this citizen. The most recent consular visit was on March 1st. A further consular visit will be arranged in the coming days.