The Tánaiste has issued urgent travel safety advice for Irish citizens heading abroad this summer, as the Department of Foreign Affairs reports an 11% spike in consular assistance cases during the first six months of 2025.
Simon Harris TD, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, has launched a renewed “Make the Right Memories” campaign targeting young people and older adults as extreme heat and wildfires continue to disrupt travel across Europe.
The significant increase in Irish citizens requiring overseas assistance comes amid dangerous heatwave conditions affecting southern and eastern European destinations popular with Cork families and young graduates.
Simon Harris said:
“My Department, through its network of Embassies and Consulates abroad, as well as a dedicated team in Dublin, offers 24-hour assistance for Irish citizens who may find themselves requiring help when abroad. Already this year, we have seen a significant increase in consular cases, and while most trips go smoothly, it’s clear that many people are encountering difficulties that may be avoided with better preparation or awareness.”
The Tánaiste specifically highlighted concerns for young people travelling independently for the first time after finishing school or college, emphasising the need for mutual support during the dangerous temperature conditions.
Essential safety measures include purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, obtaining a European Health Insurance Card for EU travel, researching local laws and customs, keeping phones charged, sharing live locations with friends during nights out, and staying in regular contact with family.
For swimming safety, travellers are advised to use only designated safe areas, whilst those visiting bars and clubs should monitor their drinks carefully and photograph important documents for easy access.
Heat safety guidance from the National Health Protection Service of Ireland recommends checking weather forecasts, following local heat-health alerts, and protecting vulnerable group members including young children and older people. Key advice includes drinking plenty of fluids whilst avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine, staying indoors during peak heat hours, taking regular cooling breaks, limiting physical activity to cooler morning or evening periods, keeping accommodation cool, taking cool baths or showers when overheated, and wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing.
Simon Harris concluded:
“Our Embassies and Consulates are there to help but preparation is key. I urge everyone travelling this summer to visit www.ireland.ie/TravelWise for the most up-to-date travel and consular advice. Take the time to note the contact details for the nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate in the country that you are visiting. Let’s prepare and make this summer an unforgettable one for the right reasons.”
Irish citizens can access 24-hour consular assistance through the Department’s global network of diplomatic missions and the dedicated Dublin support team.