Irish citizens in Libya urged to make contact

A crisis team has been established by the Department of Foreign Affairs to liaise with Irish citizens living in Libya as the security situation in the North African country continues to deteriorate.

Intense fighting among rival militias in Tripoli and other cities in recent weeks has led to the withdrawal of embassy staff from several countries.

As concerns mount, Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan has appealed to any of the estimated 100 Irish citizens thought to be living in Libya to contact the department if they have not already been registered.

“The security situation in Libya has deteriorated significantly in recent weeks,” Mr Flanagan said.

"There have been repeated reports of damage to essential infrastructure, affecting access between Libya and Europe.

“My Department has set up a Crisis Team and is currently in contact with these Irish citizens and their families.”

The department said it will continue to provide them with assistance and updated information on the situation in the country.

Factions that led the uprising in Libya in 2011 are now engaged in fierce fighting. The country’s parliament, elected last month, is reported to be arranging an emergency session to address the issue.