Vol. 464 No. 4
57 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the attempts, if any, embassies abroad make to assist Irish people who are stranded abroad as a result of the collapse of companies for whom they are working, such as recently happened to the crews of two ships owned by Euro Container Shipping plc; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8369/96]
Our Embassies can, after consultation with my Department, pay for the repatriation of citizens who are destitute, whose circumstances require that they return home and who have no other source of financial assistance. The situations in which people have to be repatriated usually involve a threat to their health or welfare or that of accompanying children.
Repatriations at State expense usually take place on the basis that the funds involved will be repaid and people assisted give written undertakings to do so.
Most people who find themselves in temporary financial difficulties abroad arrange to receive funds from their banks or from relatives or friends in Ireland. If necessary, my Department and the Embassies can assist in the transfer of funds.
