Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 November 2020
418. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps being taken to ensure the safety of all Irish citizens that reside in Ethiopia in view of the escalation in tensions between the federal government of Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36995/20]
View answerI can advise the Deputy that we are closely monitoring the situation in Ethiopia through the Embassy of Ireland in Addis Ababa. Our Embassy officials are working with the local authorities and EU partners on the ground, including the EU delegation, to communicate with EU citizens in the region, including any affected Irish citizens. Telecommunication in the region has been impacted and, as the Deputy will be aware, this can hinder communication with citizens. Nevertheless evacuation planning is already underway.
The Department’s Travel Advice for Ethiopia has also been updated, including advice to avoid all travel to Tigray region and the Tigray border areas where conflict has been reported.
As with all cases relating to Irish citizens in distress overseas, we stand ready to provide all possible consular assistance where required, and I would encourage any affected citizens to contact our Embassy in Addis Ababa where possible.
