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Tuesday , September 15 2026

Man detained in Dubai ‘just wants home for Christmas’

His comments come as Sinn Féin have released details about Michelle O’Neill’s intervention in the case.

BBC News NI has seen a letter sent by the first minister to the UAE Embassy in London.

In the letter she states: “The increasing number of people travelling from across Ireland to UAE is to be very much welcomed, however cases such as Mr Ballentine’s creates a concern for many of those, whether tourists, or taking up employment.

“I would sincerely urge your good offices to intervene on behalf of Mr Ballentine, taking a compassionate approach to the matter and ensuring that he can return home at the earliest opportunity.”

A spokesperson for Sinn Féin confirmed that to date no reply has been received from the UAE Embassy.

Mr Ballentine, from Cookstown in County Tyrone, welcomed the continued intervention from politicians.

He said: “We’ve seen a number of councillors and MLAs get involved and I’m so grateful, obviously with Michelle O’Neill being Stormont first minister that’s very important.

“She’s still waiting for a reply from the UAE embassy, but fingers crossed that will come soon.”


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