Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
21. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs what efforts his Department is making to ensure the safe release of a person (details supplied) from Gaza; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56555/23]
View answer28. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his efforts to ensure safe passage out of Gaza for an Irish-Palestinian person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56809/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 21 and 28 together.
I can assure you, Deputy, that my Department is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance.
Since the start of the current crisis in the Middle East, my Department has worked with the relevant authorities to facilitate the exit from Gaza of Irish citizens, and accompanying dependents, who have expressed a wish to leave. To date 57 Irish citizens and their dependents have been assisted to leave Gaza.
A small number of Irish citizens and accompanying dependents remain in Gaza, including the individual in question.
The Government, through our Embassies in the region, has consistently sought clearance for all Irish citizens who wish to exit Gaza to do so. We continue to advocate with the authorities in relation to those who have not yet been permitted to leave. We are also ready to assist in instances where other Irish citizens and accompanying dependents wish to exit Gaza.
