Bríd Smith (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance)
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231. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he has any plans to help evacuate the relatives of Irish citizens still trapped in Sudan; if the State will fast-track applications for family reunification or issue emergency visas to ensure family members can come to the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22304/23]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I am very conscious of the grave humanitarian crisis in Sudan. I understand that this is a difficult situation for our Sudanese community and their loved ones and I can assure you that all current immigration avenues remain open for new applications, including visa and family reunification applications.

My Department will process any new applications received speedily and sympathetically and, with the Department of Foreign Affairs, is also working closely with all EU member states to ensure a coherent EU response to events in Sudan.

The Embassy in Nairobi and the Department of Foreign Affairs are maintaining contact with and advising Irish citizens and their families still in Sudan. Consular teams in the region continue to work with people as they are evacuated, helping to arrange accommodation when needed and supporting and advising and assisting on onward arrangements.

For those seeking further information the Department recommends that citizens should follow the Embassy of Ireland in Kenya on Twitter (@IrlEmbKenya) for updated advice.