The family of a Roscommon-based engineer who's been arrested in Iraq are calling for international support to ensure his rapid release.
Robert Pether, who is originally from Sydney, Australia, but lives in Elphin, was arrested earlier this month in the capital city of Baghdad in what is being described as a dispute between his employer and their client.
According to his wife, Robert has been kept in solitary confinement and was only allowed his first phone call yesterday, weeks after his arrest.
His family is urging people of all nationalities to contact their governments and urge them to pressure Iraqi authorities into releasing the Elphin based engineer.
The Department of Foreign Affairs is currently working with the Australian Embassy towards ensuring his safety.
Speaking to the Joe Finnegan Show, Robert's wife Desree Pether says the arrest could turn into a PR disaster for the Iraqi Government's efforts to rebuild the country:
You can hear the full interview with Robert's wife Desree here:
