Statement from Taoiseach Simon Harris

I want to welcome the release of Irish citizen Paul Whelan from prison in Russia.

I have received confirmation from the US Government that Mr Whelan was part of a prisoner exchange earlier today negotiated over many months. I have spoken to the US Ambassador in Ireland who confirmed the news.

I know this will be an enormous relief to his family who have campaigned for many years for his release.

I would also like to thank Ireland’s diplomatic team in Russia and our consular team in Dublin for their years of tireless work on this case.