COVID-19: Message from Ambassador Cronin
Statement
15 March 2020Dear Fellow Irish Citizens in the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Afghanistan
A cháirde,
This is a worrying time for us all.
It is a particularly difficult time to be away from your families and friends in Ireland and you will be concerned, not just for your own health and welfare, but also for your loved ones back home.
I would like to assure you, first of all, that the Government of Ireland has implemented such measures as it feels are necessary to safeguard public health, based on the expert medical advice they have received, and that the situation remains under constant review. There is very useful information available from the HSE and I would encourage you all to read and take note of the good, practical advice from the HSE.
As regards the situation here, please continue to follow our travel advice, which incorporates links to the relevant government sites. You should also continue to heed the advice of the local authorities, who are best placed to advise on local arrangements.
St. Patrick’s Day is approaching but it will be unlike any other St. Patrick’s Day that any of us have ever known. We have, based on public health considerations, postponed planned Embassy events and the various Irish community organizations have done likewise. Hopefully these events can be re-scheduled later in the year and we will be able to celebrate our National Day then.
I urge you all to take care of yourselves and of each other through this difficult period. It will be physically and mentally demanding but there is no community like the Irish community. Please look out for and look after each other and of course the Embassy team is here to support you as well in any way we can.
Wishing you all a Happy and Safe St. Patrick's Day
Ag iarraidh Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona duit uile
Aidan
Aidan Cronin
Ambassador of Ireland
15ú Márta 2020
