Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 April 2026
156. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will review the travel advice in the medium term for Iraq; if it will be changed from unsafe country status given other countries such as the United Kingdom and the Netherlands have done in recent times; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27494/26]
View answerMy Department publishes advice for outward travel in respect of more than 200 countries and territories. The advice provides an objective assessment of the risks Irish citizens could face while travelling, working, or living overseas, with a view to helping them make informed decisions.
The advice is based on consultation with our embassies and consulates on the ground, the relevant local authorities in each country, as well as other partners as appropriate. Our Travel Advice remains under regular review.
While my Department’s travel advice pages set out a security rating associated with travel to specific locations, any decision to travel is the citizen’s responsibility.
In light of the challenging security situation across the Middle East and Gulf regions, my Department continues to advise Irish citizens against all travel to Iraq as well as to Israel, Iran, and Lebanon.
Citizens who consider their presence in Iraq to be absolutely essential should have adequate and continuous professional security arrangements in place, and ensure they are regularly reviewed. Irish citizens in Iraq are encouraged to remain vigilant, and to closely follow any safety protocols issued by Iraqi, regional and local authorities.
The Deputy can find further information on my Department's travel advice and security ratings at this link: www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/overseas-travel/know-before-you-go/security-ratings/
