Minister Flanagan statement on Irish citizens in Libya

DUBLIN, Ireland, August 1, 2014/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr Charlie Flanagan, TD, made the following statement on the situation of Irish citizens in Libya.

“The security situation in Libya has deteriorated significantly in recent weeks as fighting between rival militia groups has intensified in Tripoli and other major cities. There have been repeated reports of damage to essential infrastructure, affecting access between Libya and Europe.

“Approximately 100 Irish people remain in Libya, most of them long-term residents. My Department has set up a Crisis Team and is currently in contact with these Irish citizens and their families, to offer advice and assistance.

“We are working closely with our EU partners, and will continue to provide direct assistance and updated information to Irish citizens and their families, over the coming days.

“I would encourage all Irish people in Libya who have not yet been contacted to register with the Department, and to follow our latest travel advice at www.dfa.ie or to call us at 00353 1 408 2000.”