Department warns against travelling to Egypt

The Department of Foreign Affairs is advising against all travel to Egypt in the wake of violent protests aimed at overthrowing the regime of President Hosni Mubarak.

"Travellers are advised to exercise extreme caution and to avoid all demonstrations," the Department said in a statement this afternoon.

Officials said Cairo airport remains open, but with some disruptions, and intending passengers should contact their airline before travelling.

Travellers should be aware that there have been disruptions to phone and internet communications and there are problems with telephone communications with the Irish embassy in Cairo, the statement added.

Embassy officials are currently trying to make contact with Irish citizens resident in Egypt.

"The Department and the Embassy are consulting with our European colleagues with a view to maintaining an up-to-date assessment of the situation and ensuring the security of Irish citizens," the Department siad.

People in Egypt may contact the Embassy Duty Officer on mobile number [phone].

People in Ireland who are concerned about the situation may contact the Department of Foreign Affairs on 01-4082999 from 8am until 10pm or on 01-4780822 outside these hours.

Concerned citizens were urged to check the Department of Foreign Affairs website, www.dfa.ie, for up to date information.