The Chairperson of the Foreign Affairs committee says it's unlikely Ibrahim Halawa will be released before his case goes to trial in Egypt.

Pat Breen has met with the 19 year old in jail and says Ibrahim is in reasonable spirits.

He's been in prison in Egypt for two years - after being arrested during protests in Cairo.

His family has criticised the Government's handling of the situation - but Deputy Breen says it's being treated delicately: