Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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248. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has spoken with his counterpart in Egypt regarding the continuous cancellations of a court case in regard to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31022/17]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I identified this citizen’s case as an absolute priority when I was appointed to my new role, and I am determined to do everything I can to ensure that he is back in Ireland as soon as possible.

The Taoiseach and I have met in recent days with senior officials, including Ireland’s Ambassador to Egypt, to discuss this case, and we have received comprehensive briefing on all of the aspects involved.

The first Ambassador of a foreign country with whom I met following my appointment was the Ambassador of Egypt, Soha Gendi. I made very clear to the Ambassador the priority that I attach to our citizen’s rights and welfare, and I underlined my strong determination to see early progress towards a resolution of this matter.

I will be continuing to look at the case in detail and engaging with key relevant parties, including representatives of the Egyptian Government. I have asked my officials to arrange an early contact with the Foreign Minister of Egypt, Sameh Shoukry, and efforts to prepare and arrange this are being pursued with the authorities in Cairo.

A further hearing in the court case is taking place today and our Embassy team is attending at the court to observe the proceedings. I have instructed my officials to provide me with a detailed report on the outcome of that hearing and an assessment on the status of the trial process.