FF calls for review of safety advice for all popular tourist destinations

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs, Brendan Smith TD has called on the Department of Foreign Affairs to review the safety advice given to Irish citizens for all popular tourist destinations, in light of the possible increased threat reported from Tunisia.

The review would include consultation with our European counterparts through the European External Action Service and bilaterally through their embassies here in Dublin.

The call comes as the Department reviews its advice on travelling to Tunisia following a new travel warning from the British Foreign Office.

Deputy Smith commented: “I welcome the announcement from the Department of Foreign Affairs that it is re-evaluating its travel advice relating to Tunisia. We are now entering the most popular holiday season for Irish citizens travelling abroad. It is vital that the Department of Foreign Affairs provides Irish citizens with the most up to date information relating to the possible security threat they may face on their holidays.

“While the vast majority of countries Irish people travel to on their holidays pose no threat whatsoever, it is important that any threats are identified and that Irish citizens are made fully aware of them.

“Working with our European colleagues through the European External Action Service with Member States’ embassies here, we can establish a precise indication of the possible threat levels faced by Irish citizens.

“One of the first duties of the Department of Foreign Affairs is to ensure the safe passage of Irish citizens throughout the world. I believe this review would be a valuable step in ensuring that safe passage.”

10/07/2015  15:15