Paudge Connolly (Cavan-Monaghan, Independent)
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Question 299: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs his proposals to help Irish citizens living in an increasingly disturbed and volatile situation in Zimbabwe; the consular assistance available to persons wishing to leave; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8861/06]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The Irish Embassy in South Africa, which is also accredited to Zimbabwe, provides consular assistance to Irish citizens who live in, or travel to, Zimbabwe. The embassy estimates that there are now approximately 3,000 Irish citizens resident in Zimbabwe.

The embassy is in regular contact with the Irish community in Zimbabwe at every level. Staff from the embassy visit Zimbabwe approximately every four to six weeks and regularly meet members of the Irish community, Irish religious, and Irish NGOs during such visits.

The embassy is aware that a number of Irish citizens in Zimbabwe are considering the possibility of moving to Ireland. The embassy offers advice and information on the various issues that arise relating to a move to Ireland. The citizens concerned also benefit from the support and advice offered by the Safe Home Programme Limited. The Department of Foreign Affairs gives a significant financial contribution to the Safe Home Programme —€184,743 in 2005 — to support it in its work with Irish citizens in Britain and elsewhere, including Zimbabwe.

The embassy monitors and reviews the position of the Irish community in Zimbabwe on an ongoing basis, and maintains close and continuing contact with community representatives there.