Family of OCI president Pat Hickey call on government to urgently intervene

Friday, 26 August 2016 19:57

They’ve raised concerns about his arrest and detention at a high security prison in Rio.

The family of OCI president Pat Hickey is calling on the government to urgently intervene in the handling of his case in Brazil.

They’ve raised concerns about his arrest and detention at a high security prison in Rio and want him brought back to Ireland immediately- saying they're "gravely concerned" that the 71-year-old has been detained in a high security jail for a week without any charges being brought.

They're also seeking urgent meetings with the Ministers for Sport and Foreign Affairs, and also want to meet with the Taoiseach Enda Kenny when he returns from holiday.

This evening, the Foreign Affairs Minister responded - saying he has agreed to meet with the Hickey family and arrangements will be made in the coming days.

However, Minister Flanagan stressed the Department cannot provide legal advice or interfere in any way in the judicial processes in another country.

Meanwhile, the Olympic Council has appointed Grant Thornton to examine its handling of tickets for the Olympic Games in Rio.

The OCI says the review will be concluded by Monday the 10th of October.