Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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85. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the provisions in place to support Irish citizens whose visa has expired but test positive for Covid-19. [24171/21]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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My Department provides consular assistance to all Irish citizens in distress overseas where requested. This includes confidential advice and support in relation to illness or any emergency situation, in line with the principles of our Consular Assistance Charter.

While our Embassies and Consulates cannot provide medical advice, consular officials can provide citizens with information on local health supports in the context of COVID-19, including details of English-speaking doctors where required. As the Deputy will appreciate, our officials are precluded from intervening in or influencing the visa or immigration decisions of other jurisdictions. However, where appropriate, our officials can liaise with local authorities in relation to the welfare of an Irish citizen and request that all possible support be provided, including citizens who may shortly be required to leave the jurisdiction.

Requirements for individuals travelling to Ireland in the context of COVID-19, including the requirement for those arriving to Ireland to have a negative detected PCR test, are a matter for the Department of Health. My Department continues to work closely with the Department of Health to ensure that appropriate advice and support is provided to Irish citizens overseas.