Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 May 2023
155. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of Irish citizens who remain in Sudan; the steps he is taking to ensure their safe return; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24965/23]
View answerThe Department of Foreign Affairs has assisted 280 Irish citizens and their dependents to evacuate from Sudan since the commencement of the conflict there on 15 April.
No definitive records are available as to the exact number of Irish citizens remaining in Sudan because of the voluntary nature of the citizens’ registration system that is in place.
The Embassy of Ireland in Nairobi, which is accredited to Sudan, has maintained close contact with those who have registered as being in Sudan throughout the crisis. This includes a small and decreasing number of Irish citizens who are remaining in Sudan and who wish to leave. Our experienced consular teams are continuing to provide advice and support to these citizens.
While large scale evacuation operations from Sudan have now ceased, a number of commercial options are in place that are continuing to allow citizens to leave the country, where they decide to do so at their own risk. In such cases, the Embassy of Ireland in Nairobi is providing information and other supports.
Ireland fully supports international mediation efforts to end the conflict. It is vital for humanitarian assistance to reach the population and to create an environment for the safe return of civilians. Together with our EU and international partners, Ireland will continue to work for a peaceful and democratic future for the people of Sudan.
