Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Smith makes an important point in respect of registration. In addition to publishing travel advice and ensuring the travel advice is constantly under review and updated in accordance with the information received and the circumstances on the ground, we operate a citizen registration facility which allows Irish citizens to register their contact details with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to ensure they are easily contactable in the event of an emergency. There has been an increase in registration and I would avail of the opportunity to advise on the importance of registration. I would encourage and advise all travellers, particular those who are travelling to remote destinations or locations where they may be at risk, to register on the Department's website. Registration can be completed on the website of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, www.dfa.ie. While we encourage travellers to register their details, it is not possible for us to compel citizens to avail of this facility. They are under no obligation to do so but I would strongly recommend that they do, and I am sure everybody in the House would agree with that advice.

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