Situation in Egypt 31 January 2011

Situation in Egypt 

Protests in Egypt are continuing today and are particularly affecting the cities of Cairo, Alexandria and Suez.

The Department of Foreign Affairs, either directly or through the Irish Embassy in Cairo, has contacted all Irish citizens resident in Egypt for whom we have contact details and will call them again today.  The Department has opened its Crisis Centre to respond to public concerns.  The Crisis Centre will again be open until 10 p.m. this evening and will re-open at 8 a.m. tomorrow morning.  Any Irish citizens in Cairo who have not registered with the Department are advised to do so immediately.

The Department and the Embassy are cooperating closely with EU partners with a view to maintaining an up-to-date assessment of the situation and in regard to contingency planning. 

The Department is examining contingency arrangements for Irish citizens.  There are, however, very significant logistical problems in Cairo at present, including communications problems and severe difficulties and delays at the airport.  There is also a curfew in operation from 15.00hrs until 8.00 hrs.  These factors which will have to be taken into account in contingency planning.

The Department of Foreign Affairs Crisis Centre can be reached on 01-4082999 from 8am until 10pm or on 01-4780822 outside these hours.   The  Embassy in  Cairo can be contacted at  +20174443942  .

ENDS++
31 January 2011