County Roscommon resident released from jail in Iraq after four years
Robert Pether has been released on bail from prison in Iraq.
Tánaiste Simon Harris has confirmed that County Roscommon resident, Robert Pether, has been released from jail in Iraq after four years.
According to a report in the on Thursday evening, Mr Pether — an Australian citizen who had been living in Elphin with his family — has embarked on the “first step” in returning to Ireland.
The report stated that Mr Pether had been released from prison on bail and remained in Iraq.
“This evening, I have been informed of the release on bail of Robert Pether, whose imprisonment in Iraq has been a case of great concern,” said Tánaiste Simon Harris.
“This is very welcome news in what has been a long and distressing saga for Robert’s wife, three children and his wider family and friends.
"Foreign Minister (Fuad) Hussein of Iraq, whom I spoke to last month to urge Robert’s release, called me this evening with the news.
“I was informed that Robert has been released on bail and for the moment he remains in Iraq, but I welcome this as a first step to his being allowed to return to his family in Roscommon," the Tánaiste continued.
Mr Pether has been in an Iraqi jail since April 21st, 2021.
*The Roscommon Herald will update this story as soon as more details become available.
