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Terrorist Attacks

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 October 2010

Tuesday, 12 October 2010

Questions (37)

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

100 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on recent tourist advisory warnings issued by countries to their citizens living or travelling in Europe due to perceived risks of terrorist attack. [36086/10]

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Written answers

While I am aware of the recent travel advisories issued by other countries to their citizens travelling to Europe, it is the Department of Foreign Affairs that issues detailed travel advice for the benefit of Irish citizens travelling or resident abroad. The Department's advice is available on its website, www.dfa.ie. It reflects a considered assessment of the risks involved and is based on the best information available to the Department. It draws on reports from Irish Diplomatic and Consular Missions abroad and advice issued by other countries, including Member States of the European Union, as well as other like minded countries. The advice takes account of any current security situation that exists and every effort is made to ensure that the advice offered is accurate and up-to-date.

Ireland works closely with other Member States of the European Union in the consular area in ensuring effective coordination and in exchanging essential information as to how to act together in advising and assisting all our citizens.

The Department is not currently advising against travel to Member States of the European Union. We are, however, advising citizens when travelling to be alert to possible threats of terrorist attack on places frequented by tourists. If we are advised of any specific threat at any time we will amend our advice to reflect this.

As I am sure the Deputy will accept, the primary responsibility for undertaking a journey overseas rests with the individual. However, I can assure the Deputy that my Department will continue to monitor the situation closely and will remain in regular contact with our European colleagues in order to provide our citizens with the most helpful advice in this regard.

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