The MFA provided assistance to 41 Romanians affected by the violence in Northern Ireland. The ministry says that lists of addresses, including those from Romanian communities, circulated online
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Externe) announced on Friday that it provided assistance to a number of 41 Romanian citizens affected by the violence in Northern Ireland and issued 15 travel documents to return to Romania, generally for minors.
According to the ministry, since the outbreak of the protests, 11 requests for consular assistance have been handled, involving 41 Romanian citizens, of which 17 are minors, as well as a citizen of the European Union, a family member of a Romanian.
“The protests in Northern Ireland have also generated risks regarding the safety of Romanian citizens and we are in direct contact with the authorities that manage the situation. We appreciate the good collaboration and the responsible calls for calm by the representatives and authorities. From the outbreak of the crisis until now, the MAE, through diplomatic missions and consular offices, maintains contact with the Romanian community and with the authorities, both local and line ministries,” the interim minister of External, Oana Ţoiu, according to News.ro.
According to her, ensuring a climate of security in the area was the priority conveyed by the diplomatic mission of Romania, including in the context in which lists of addresses where foreign citizens live, including from areas with Romanian communities, circulated in the online environment.
“Part of the families are returning home. So far, travel documents have been issued, especially for minors without a passport. The Consulate General of Romania in Edinburgh continues to take steps to identify and support the affected Romanian citizens,” Oana Țoiu said.
The MFA also reported that, on Thursday, the consul general of Romania in Edinburgh, Andreea Berechet, traveled to Belfast, where she met with two Romanian families affected by the violent protests.
The two families were accommodated in housing provided by the local authorities and received or were to receive support for the recovery of belongings and documents from the vandalized homes, as well as for transportation to the airport.
At the same time, the consul general participated in a meeting organized by the Police of Northern Ireland with representatives of community organizations and local authorities, during which he emphasized the concerns of Romanian citizens regarding personal safety and the protection of assets.
