Rose Conway-Walsh urges government action to protect stranded Mayo and Irish citizens and peacekeepers in Lebanon

Sinn Féin TD, Rose Conway-Walsh, has expressed deep concern for the safety of Mayo and Irish citizens currently stranded in the Middle East, as well as Irish peacekeepers serving with UNIFIL in Lebanon.

The Mayo TD has called on the government to respond to the immediate needs of people wishing to return home. 

Teachta Conway-Walsh said she has been in contact with people in Mayo who are very concerned for family members living in the Middle East, and others who are travelling through the region.

“Thousands of families across the State have loved ones living and working in the UAE and Qatar, many are teachers, and they are understandably anxious and distressed.

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"If civilian airports remain closed for any extended period, the Government must organise repatriation flights and put contingency plans in place immediately, without delay. 

“Irish citizens abroad must know that their government will act swiftly and effectively to assist them.

Conway-Walsh said her thoughts are with the Irish peacekeeping troops serving in Lebanon during this time. 

“These men and women are carrying out vital peacekeeping duties under a UN mandate, and their safety must be an absolute priority. 

“I am calling on the Government to provide regular updates to families of serving personnel and to ensure all necessary protective measures are in place.

 She further expressed how this is a worrying time for many Irish families, both those with loved ones stranded in the Gulf and those with family members serving overseas. “The government must act with urgency, transparency, and care,” she added.

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