Irish citizens killed in californian balcony collapse

Laois/Offaly TD and Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan has expressed his heartfelt sympthy over the deaths of a number of Irish citizens in California.

It’s reported that five people died when a fourth floor balcony collapsed in California. “It is with great sadness that I confirm that a number of young Irish citizens have lost their lives while a number of others have been seriously injured following the collapse of a balcony in Berkley, California earlier today,” said Minister Flanagan.

“My heart goes out to the families and loved ones of the deceased and those who have been injured in this appalling accident. My Department in Dublin stands ready to provide all possible consular assistance to the Irish citizens affected by this tragedy,” he remarked.

The Consul General in San Francisco is in close contact with the authorities and will be providing assistance to those affected on the ground.

“It is too early to know the full extent of this dreadful accident but I have opened my Department’s Consular Crisis Centre and activated our emergency response line so we can provide assistance and guidance to the families of those affected and to others who have concerns,” Minister Flanagan remarked.  

Anyone with concerns about friends or family in the region, should call the Emergency Consular Response Team on +353 1 418 0200.