Richard O'Halloran had been forced to remain in China since being placed on a Chinese exit ban three years ago.
(Source: Wikimedia Commons)Irish businessman Richard O'Halloran is en route home from China, after restrictions on him were lifted.
He had been placed on a Chinese exit ban three years ago because of a dispute involving the company for which he worked and Chinese authorities.
Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney has confirmed today the restrictions have been lifted and he can now return home.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has welcomed today's development and says it has been a very difficult journey for Richard O'Halloran and his family.
In a tweet Micheál Martin acknowledged the work of the many people in Ireland and China who have helped make this day happen.
Warmly welcome the returning home of Richard O’Halloran.
I acknowledge the work of the many people in Ireland and in China who have helped make this day happen.
It has been a very difficult journey for him and his family.
Thinking of them today.— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) January 28, 2022
Meanwhile, the Chinese Embassy in Dublin says the exit ban has already been lifted and it notices that Richard O'Halloran has left China.
In a statement, it said it is expected that he continues to fulfil his pledges and commitment and undertake his corresponding legal obligations.
Remarks of the Spokesperson of the Embassy on the lifting of exit ban on Mr. Richard O’Halloran pic.twitter.com/NQ8kjlxgTo
— Chinese Embassy in Ireland (@ChinaEmbIreland) January 28, 2022
