Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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198. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which he and his Department continue to support a person (details supplied) detained in Egypt; if it is expected that a breakthrough will be achieved resulting in his release or return here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33507/17]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The Government is continuing to work very hard on this Irish citizen’s behalf, and this case remains the top consular priority of the Department of Foreign Affairs. Very significant resources continue to be deployed to support this citizen and his family.The trial in which he is a defendant was back in court twice in the past week – on 4 July and again on 9 July - for further hearings. Our Embassy team was in the court to observe the proceedings, as they have been at every hearing in the case.

The latest hearings saw further progress in the case. The last of the prosecution witnesses have now been called. The judge, at the request of the defence lawyers, has agreed that the next hearing, scheduled for 16 July, will be devoted to a critical examination of the video evidence which the prosecution side has presented.

Our understanding is that the defence lawyers, including our Irish citizen’s representative, will soon have their opportunity to present their case on behalf of their clients.

I had a telephone conversation on 9 July with my Egyptian counterpart, Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry. I underlined in the strongest possible terms the Government’s position on this case and our determination to see our citizen back in Ireland with his family as soon as possible. I will be continuing to look at the case in detail, and engaging with key relevant parties, including representatives of the Egyptian Government at all appropriate levels.

I can assure the Deputy that the Government will be continuing to work day-in and day-out to secure this individual’s return to Ireland at the earliest possible moment. This is our objective, and we are working relentlessly in order to achieve that outcome.