Press Release: Consular Advice for Thailand

Situation in Bangkok, Thailand - Consular Advice to Irish Citizens

Statement by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Dermot Ahern, T.D.

Minister Ahern issued the following statement earlier today:

“While no reports have been received of violence or of danger to Irish citizens, my Department is advising Irish visitors already in or about to visit Thailand that:-

- it has been announced that Martial Law has been declared throughout the country;

- while the situation on the ground in Bangkok is calm and its airport is open, Irish citizens in Bangkok should stay indoors to the extent possible; exercise caution if traveling around the city; avoid any street demonstrations which might take place and stay away from Government buildings;

- Irish citizens should closely monitor the situation locally, including in regard to announcements about possible restrictions on movement throughout Thailand.

I have directed Irish Embassies and Consulates in the region to continue to closely follow developments, and offer all necessary consular assistance to Irish citizens in Thailand.  Irish citizens should also refer to the advice published on the Department of Foreign Affairs website www.dfa.ie”

Note for Editors.
Separate from the events overnight, the Department of Foreign Affairs travel advice continues to contain the following cautionary advice: there has been severe flooding in the northern provinces of Uttaradit, Phrae, Lampang, Nan and Sukhothai in Thailand.  Citizens should check local media and weather reports before considering travelling to this region.

We continue to advise against all but essential travel to, or through, the far southern provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat and Songkhla, where there is continuing violence due to insurgency and civil unrest.  Since January 2004, there have been regular attacks including bombings and shootings.  The Thai Government has declared a serious state of emergency in the provinces of Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat.

ends.