Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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147. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps he is taking to facilitate the evacuation of Irish residents from Sudan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22743/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The conflict in Sudan has had a devastating impact on civilians. Hundreds have been killed, and thousands injured. Residents in Khartoum and other parts of Sudan are facing shortages of food, water, medicine and other necessities. It is vital that humanitarian assistance reaches those in need.

It is also vital to have a durable ceasefire. Ireland fully supports mediation efforts by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States, along with those of the African Union, the United Nations, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, and regional leaders. The European Union is also actively working for an end to the conflict and a return to the democratic transition in Sudan.

Since the outbreak of conflict on 15 April, the Department of Foreign Affairs, our Embassy in Nairobi, which is accredited to Sudan, and other Irish Embassies have assisted in the evacuation from Sudan of over 250 Irish citizens and family members, in cooperation with our international partners. For now, all evacuation flights from Sudan have ended.

We are aware of some Sudanese citizens who have Irish residence permits who are currently in Sudan. Our Embassy in Nairobi is maintaining contact with as many of them as possible, to provide information and advice.