Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 February 2024
142. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if a person (details supplied) can be facilitated in being evacuated from Gaza; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6326/24]
View answerSince the start of this crisis, my Department has worked with the relevant authorities to facilitate the exit from Gaza of those Irish citizens, and accompanying dependents, who have expressed a wish to leave. We continue to advocate with the authorities in relation to those Irish citizens and dependents who have not yet been permitted to leave.
The authorities have made clear that the focus for facilitated departures from Gaza is for foreign and dual nationals, and immediate dependents accompanying them.
In line with the Department’s Consular Assistance Charter, the remit of my Department is to provide consular assistance to Irish citizens abroad. This has been our focus since the crisis began.
The population of Gaza is 2.3 million people. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire and many of those living in Gaza are seeking to leave. In recent weeks, my Department has received many enquiries regarding the situation of individuals, including people with ties to Ireland or already holding a visa for Ireland.
Any decision on clearance for these individuals to leave Gaza will be made by the relevant local authorities. Holders of valid Irish visas or residence permits who receive clearance to exit Gaza from the local authorities may make arrangements to travel to Ireland.
My Department has made contact with the family in Ireland of the person who's details you have supplied. Let me assure you, Deputy, that we are giving very close consideration to these matters, given the gravity of the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
