I am aware of statements by some supporters of the Irish team and by the official carrier of the Football Association of Ireland – which is not arranging any travel for supporters on this occasion – about their experiences when the team last played against Turkey in Istanbul in 1991. I have also seen a statement by another Dublin travel agency which takes a more positive and benevolent view of those events and of the prospects for the forthcoming match in Bursa.
When the announcement of the match was made, the Department was in contact with the Turkish ambassador in Dublin and the Irish Ambassador to Turkey spoke with the Turkish Government and the Turkish Football Federation. On each occasion, we conveyed our concern for the safety of Irish fans travelling to Turkey for the game. The Department has also been in touch with the Football Association of Ireland on a number of occasions.
In a statement issued on 14 October, the Turkish Embassy in Dublin stated that the Turkish authorities "have long since taken measures and perfected their crowd control skills that has put a stop to any kind of inappropriate and/or violent behaviour during football games.". The statement went on to say that Irish footballers and football fans can rest assured that they will be treated as respected and honoured guests in Turkey. The Turkish Football Federation has indicated that it will take all necessary security measures in line with FIFA and UEFA regulations.
While the Deputy will appreciate that it is not possible in today's world to give absolute guarantees of safety on such occasions, the Turkish authorities are aware of our concerns and have indicated their intention to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of Irish citizens attending the match.