Consular Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 April 2023

Tuesday, 25 April 2023

Questions (131)

Neasa Hourigan

Question:

131. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has intervened in the case of a person (details supplied) with the Greek government or through any other diplomatic channel, given that criminal charges brought against them and 23 other volunteers and aid workers by the Greek government, have been condemned by several human rights organisations as politically motivated, and carry severe prison sentences if upheld; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19466/23]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

It is the understanding of my Department that Mr. Binder was arrested in Greece in 2018 and was charged in relation to a number of offences. On 13 January 2023, the case concerning the misdemeanour charges against Mr. Binder was annulled, while a separate felony case remains at an investigative stage.

As Mr. Binder is a German citizen, consular assistance is being provided by the German Embassy in Athens, and has been since his initial arrest and period of pre-trial detention in 2018. However, given Mr. Binder’s very strong ties to Ireland, Irish officials have been in contact with both Mr. Binder and the German Embassy in regard to the case.

The Department of Foreign Affairs, through the Embassy of Ireland in Athens, will continue to follow any developments as they arise.