An Irish businessman who was prevented from leaving China for three years, can now return home.
Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney says restrictions placed on father-of-four Richard O'Halloran have been lifted.
He was placed under a Chinese Exit Ban almost three years ago.
While he was free to move around the country he wasn't allowed to return home to his family.
They have campaigned tirelessly for him to be allowed to leave the country.
The ban was put in place as a result of a dispute involving the company he worked for and Chinese authorities.
Very good news, after many months of work. Thank you to everyone who assisted. I want to wish Richard and his family well following a traumatic 3 years and hope that their privacy will be respected on his return home. @dfatirl https://t.co/DMi88FTnhS
— Simon Coveney (@simoncoveney) January 28, 2022
He said the government has been actively engaged on the issue and acknowledged the recent cooperation of the Chinese Embassy in Ireland and Chinese authorities.
It's hoped Richard O'Halloran can return home over the weekend.
