asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the present position regarding Brian Keenan, especially in the wake of the Rushdie affair.

60.

asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, on his return to Teheran, the Irish Chargé d'Affaires was asked to raise with the Iranian Government the matter of Brian Keenan; and the result of these discussions.

I will take Questions Nos. 54 and 60 together.

The steps taken by the Government to obtain information about the well being and whereabouts of Mr. Brian Keenan were outlined in reply to a question on 21 February. In recent weeks the Irish Chargé d'Affaires has returned to Teheran and has discussed the case with the Iranian authorities who have indicated their continuing willingness to help.

Unfortunately, there is no new information about Mr. Keenan. I can assure the House that the Government will continue their efforts on his behalf.