The family of OCI president Pat Hickey has called on the Irish government to urgently intervene in the handling of his case in Brazil.
It's issued a statement saying it's "gravely concerned" about the 71-year-old's treatment - and call on ministers Shane Ross and Charlie Flanagan to urgently intervene in the handling of the case.
They note that the Hickey has now been detained in a high security jail for a week, without any charges being brought, or without any opportunity to apply for bail.
Statement from Pat Hickey's family - they're seeking a meeting with Enda Kenny to discuss his treatment in Brazil pic.twitter.com/PB4hJ2pfI1
— Gavan Reilly (@gavreilly) August 26, 2016
They also claim that the release of some apparent evidence to the media, without a right of reply, has meant 'imbalanced reporting' of the case.
The statement also raises concern about the manner of his arrest, the effect of his detention on his health, and his right to a fair hearing.
They say they're "extremely anxious" about his health, and want him immediately released on bail, but also 'to get him home to Ireland' as a priority.
They're seeking urgent meetings with both the Ministers - and also want to meet with Enda Kenny when he returns from holiday.
However, in a statement this evening, Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanangan said his Department cannot "interfere in any way in the judicial processes in another country".
He has agreed, however, to meet with the family.
Our political correspondent Gavan Reilly reports:
