The Australian Government welcomes the Iraqi Government's decision to allow Mr Robert Pether to leave Iraq today.
I spoke to Mr Pether shortly before his departure from Baghdad and am pleased he is now free to move forward with his life and be reunited with his family.
Mr Pether had been imprisoned in Iraq for more than four years and was later subject to travel restrictions that prevented him from leaving the country.
Today's outcome follows many years of persistent advocacy by the Australian Government, including at the highest levels of government, and sustained consular assistance to Mr Pether and his family.
I thank the Australian officials whose tireless work helped achieve this outcome, as well as the Irish authorities for their close cooperation throughout this process.
I wish Mr Pether and his family all the very best as they reunite.