French President has blamed the so-called Islamic State for Paris attacks

The French President Francois Hollande has called last night's co-ordinated attacks across Paris - in which 128 people were killed - as an 'act of war' and blamed the so-called Islamic State.

The French President, Francois Hollande, has described the attacks as 'barbaric'.

“Nothing will bring us down although we may be saddened and hurt, France is a solid, valiant people and we will triumph over this barbaric act,” Mr Hollande said.

“My fellow Frenchman we are defending not only our own values but the values of humanity and France will always meet that responsibility”.

It is thought as many as 180 others have been injured, among them an Irish citizen.

The deadliest incident was at a music venue, the Bataclan, where gunmen held audience members hostage - before blowing themselves up as police stormed the building.

Eight terrorists were killed, seven of them in suicide attacks.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has said the Irish Embassy in Paris is providing consular assistance to one injured Irish citizen following last night’s attacks.

#BREAKING: Paris attacks were 'act of war' by Islamic State jihadists: French President Francois Hollande

— AFP News Agency (@AFP) November 14, 2015

The Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan has said there is no indication of any other Irish casualties at this time but as a precaution the Department's Consular Response Centre has been activated.

Minister Charlie Flanagan has said Irish citizens in Paris should exercise caution, stay indoors and continue to follow the instructions of the local authorities.

Any citizens intending to travel should check with their airline or tour operator for information, the airports are operational but citizens should expect additional security and travel disruptions.

The Response Centre can be contacted on 01 418 0200 or [e-mail].

PARIS ATTACKS: Syrian President Assad has sent his condolences to French President Hollande in wake of #ParisAttackshttps://t.co/TvqlWduWdg

— Conflict News (@Conflicts) November 14, 2015