VIDEO: Concern over safety of Irish nurse in Philippines

The Government is “most concerned” about the safety and wellbeing of a Cork nurse who has been forced into hiding in the Philippines.

The Dáil has heard the life of Éanna O’Cochlain, “is in danger” with a number of TDs calling on the minister for foreign affairs to take urgent action in the case.

In July 2013, Mr O Cochlain, who is in his 50s, was convicted of smuggling 0.38g of cannabis through Laoag International Airport and sentenced to a 12-year prison term. However, he has maintained his innocence and says the drug was planted on him. He also claims he was taken into custody after refusing to pay off police officers.