Michael Noonan
Question:58 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his plans to ensure the safety of Irish citizens on the Indian subcontinent. [15034/02]
Written Answers. - Foreign Conflicts.
Concern at the risk of conflict on the Indian subcontinent remains high. In view of this my Department, on 2 June 2002, advised against all travel to India and Pakistan for the time being and also advised Irish citizens resident in the region to consider leaving. The Irish Embassy in New Delhi has contacted all Irish citizens known to be in India in order to make this advice clear and we understand that all those who wish to leave have already done so. The majority of citizens remaining are in south India which is further from the potential zone of conflict. Ireland has an Honorary Consulate in Bangalore and measures have been taken to strengthen the consular services available to Irish citizens in south India.
In relation to Pakistan, I understand that those Irish citizens who wish to leave have done so. My Department is continuing to monitor the situation in the region closely and will provide further advice and support to Irish citizens there in relation to their safety as appropriate.
Question No. 59 answered with Question No. 6.