Jim O’Callaghan spoke with his UAE counterpart, His Excellency Abdullah bin Sultan Al Nuaimi, by phone on Saturday 31 May, it emerged yesterday.

The call followed the extradition of Sean McGovern, an alleged senior member of the Kinahan organised crime group, who is now on trial before the Special Criminal Court.

In a joint statement, the Irish and UAE justice ministers said the extradition underscored a “firm and ongoing joint commitment to upholding the rule of law and fostering international cooperation”.

They also said it reflected “the strong relationship between the UAE and Ireland, our continued collaboration in the pursuit of international justice and a shared determination to ensure that justice is served”.

“This positive development is further evidence of the excellent criminal justice cooperation between the governments of the UAE and Ireland and highlights our joint dedication to ensuring that criminal prosecutions may be brought against those who attempt to evade justice,” they added.

Ireland and the UAE previously signed bilateral agreements on extradition and mutual legal assistance in criminal matters which entered into force on 18 May 2025.

Detained in Dubai, founded by lawyer Radha Stirling, has criticised Ireland’s cooperation with the UAE, which it says does not respect human rights or the rule of law.

Ms Stirling said last week: “McGovern’s extradition will be used to polish the UAE’s image. But the same risks remain, including arbitrary arrests, lack of fair trials, and politically motivated prosecutions.

“It is vital that Western governments approach such cooperation with caution and scrutiny.”