Minister Ahern condemns bomb attacks in Bali

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Dermot Ahern T.D., strongly condemned the bomb attacks in Bali earlier today.

The Minster said:

“I utterly condemn this barbaric attack which was deliberately designed to kill and injure innocent people.  .

So far, I am not aware of any Irish casualties.  However, I have instructed an official from our Embassy in Singapore to travel to Bali to provide any consular assistance that may be required to Irish people there. 

I would ask anyone concerned about their loved ones in Bali to use the Dublin emergency lines – (01) 408 2308 and 408 2833.  As a precautionary measure, we established emergency lines as quickly as possible and our staff will remain on duty to provide every assistance. 

I reiterate the Government's emphatic rejection of terrorist attacks wherever they occur.  No cause can ever justify terrorist atrocities of this kind.” 

Note for Editors

The Department of Foreign Affairs reiterates its travel advice for Indonesia as follows:

There have been reports of at least two explosions in Central Kuta and Jimbaran in Bali on 1 October between 1815hrs and 1900hrs local time.  There are reports of several casualties, including foreigners.  In the wake of this bombing and the previous bombings in Bali (2002) and Jakarta (2003), the risk of further attacks remains high and Irish citizens are advised against non-essential travel to any part of Indonesia, including Bali.  Irish citizens in Indonesia are urged to exercise extreme caution, particularly in public places frequented by Westerners such as hotels, restaurants and nightclubs.