Department tries to contact 1,000 Irish living in Christchurch, after quake

The Department of Foreign Affairs has said it is urgently working with local officials in New Zealand to find out whether any Irish people have been affected by the earthquake in Christchurch, in which at least 65 people have died.

The Department is also trying to make contact with Irish nationals registered in the area. There are about 1,000 Irish-born people living in Christchurch.

Anyone here who is concerned about their family or friends is advised to contact the Department on 014780822.

Details can also be registered on the Department's website on dfa.ie