asked the Minister for External Affairs if he will state, in view of the present unsettled situation in the Middle East, what action has been taken to safeguard the interests of Irish citizens working or living in that area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish Citizens in Middle East.
3.
The British authorities have been asked to undertake the consular protection of Irish citizens in Israel and Jordan and, in conjunction with our consulate there, in Lebanon and Syria. Irish citizens will be included in their evacuation plans for their own citizens. Similar arrangements have been made with the Italian authorities in respect of Irish citizens in the United Arab Republic.
Does the Minister think that Irish citizens may be placed in any jeopardy in view of the rather unpopular nature of the British Government's attitude to the Middle East crisis? Does he think that because of the belief of the Arab States that the British are not acting in a neutral manner, Irish citizens may be affected? Does he think he could have got a more acceptable nation from the point of view of neutrality?
We have made the best possible arrangements in the circumstances.
Can the Minister give the House any information from reports he has received as to the position of Irish citizens in the Middle East?
I do not know about the ordinary civilian citizens but the families of the ten Irish officers who have been serving in UNSO are on their way home, and some of them have reached Cyprus. Unfortunately, as the Deputy knows, Commandant Wickham was killed yesterday but his wife and family have reached Beirut.
I understand that some religious are studying in Jerusalem. I do not now if the Minister has any information but concern has been expressed to me on behalf of at least one person, and there are possibly others.
There are a number in Israel.
Has the Minister any further details about the tragic death of the Irish officer reported today?
I have not any details.
Has the Minister considered the possibility of joining with other countries in initiating a proposal to protect Jerusalem, and particularly the Old City by appealing to the combatants to respect it because of its historical and religious associations?
We have made representations to the Arab countries and to Israel to avoid destruction in the Holy Places. That would include Jerusalem and we have also asked them to avoid destruction in other densely populated areas.
Has the Minister had any reply to these representations?
Not yet.
Has the Minister taken steps to inquire into the circumstances of the death of the young officer?
We have, but we have not yet received details.
I appreciate that you could not have obtained a reply yet.