TDs to visit Ibrahim Halawa in Egyptian jail

Mr Halawa, 20, is being prosecuted alongside hundreds of co-defendants in mass trial for allegedly participating in a political protest.

He was 17 at the time of his arrest in 2013 and has been charged with serious offences, all of which he strongly denies. His lawyers believe that, if convicted, he may face the death penalty.

Green Party leader Eamon Ryan, who will join the delegation, told The Irish Times that the visit will make a difference.

Mr Ryan added: “We have to try every diplomatic avenue. But you can’t beat actually being there and meeting people face to face.”