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23rd May 2017
09:05am BST
Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan has released a statement expressing his shock at last night's explosion in Manchester.
The latest statement from Greater Manchester Police has confirmed that 22 people have died and 59 others have been injured in the incident which occurred at the end of an Ariana Grande concert at Manchester Arena.
Latest statement on incident at Manchester Arena @CCIanHopkins pic.twitter.com/LDG1wgX2sT
— G M Police (@gmpolice) May 23, 2017
Minister Flanagan noted that he is as yet unaware of any Irish casualties in a statement released this morning:
"I am shocked and horrified by the large loss of life in Manchester last night and my thoughts and prayers are with those affected, and we stand by our nearest neighbour, the U.K. especially due to the strong links between our country and the city of Manchester.
"The Consular Section of my Department, in conjunction with our Embassy in London is monitoring the situation and we are not at this time aware of any Irish citizens affected.
"Anyone with concerns for family and friends can contact the Consular Division of my Department on 353 1 408 2000."
Outgoing Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny also expressed his disbelief:
Our thoughts & prayers are with the victims, their families & all those affected by the atrocity in Manchester. We are heartbroken for all.
— Enda Kenny (@EndaKennyTD) May 23, 2017
If you have any concerns about Irish citizens you can contact the Department of Foreign Affairs #manchesterattack pic.twitter.com/Oayqy6yjhW
— RTÉ (@rte) May 23, 2017
