Written answers
Thursday, 20 January 2011
Department of Foreign Affairs
Natural Disasters
5:00 am
Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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Question 29: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has conveyed the sympathies of the Irish people to the Australian Government and the people of Queensland experiencing the terrible effects of flooding on their lands, homes and families; if he has received a report of the position in general; and if consular services are being offered to any Irish citizens or émigrés caught up in the flooding. [2862/11]
Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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In light of the very severe flooding currently affecting Australia, and Queensland in particular, sympathy was conveyed by the Minister for Foreign Affairs to the Australian Government and people. The Irish Embassy in Canberra and the Consulate General in Sydney continue to monitor the situation and are providing reports on an ongoing basis. The Embassy is in continuous contact with Irish community organisations in Queensland.
On the basis of the reports received, the Department of Foreign Affairs has advised travellers to avoid disaster areas and recommended to people in flooded areas to follow all advice and directions from local emergency services and police. To date, no requests for consular assistance have been received from Irish citizens. Irish citizens affected by the floods can, of course, avail of the extensive assistance being offered by the Queensland State Authorities. The Embassy in Canberra and the Consulate General in Sydney stand ready to provide assistance, should it be required.
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