I join the Leader of the Opposition in expressing sympathy to the Ryan family on the tragedy that occurred in Baltimore as a result of a freak wave. What happened there was extremely tragic and we are aware of all the other tragic incidents.

I did not have an opportunity yesterday to join in the expressions of sympathy extended to the bereaved families of the 38 people who were slaughtered in the massacre in Tunisia. They were defenceless holidaymakers. Those who perpetuated the atrocity set out to destroy the economy of that region, and this will destroy it. Larry and Martina Hayes of Westlodge, Athlone, County Westmeath, died, with Lorna Carty who was holidaying with her husband, Declan, from Robinstown, County Meath. Martina Hayes, née Kelly, was from Kiltoom, County Roscommon, and was a member of a large and well respected family. I know her brother Billy and his wife, Carol, and the couple who died had one daughter, Sinead. It is a terrible tragedy.

Tunisia, Morocco and the other countries in that region are in a state of crisis. When referring to the Egyptian coastal resort of Sharm el-Sheik on the Sinai Peninsula, I note that the website of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises Irish citizens to exercise caution, arrive and depart by air and avoid travelling outside the resort.

They almost become prisoners in the resort they choose. It would be advisable at this time for people not to travel to these countries when they are in such a state of chaos. There is not a great deal of security in operation on the part of the Tunisians. Also, I hope they release the bodies shortly. People should be advised also not to wear any emblem that would identify them as being Christians because they might become targets for assassination in these areas. The situation is very serious and, unfortunately, it all goes back to the disruption of that region caused by President Bush and Mr. Blair. Anyone who reads history will know what happened. It is no excuse but the entire region has been destabilised and in the circumstances the Department should advise Irish citizens not to holiday in those countries when security is so lax. There was no security on the beach in Tunisia when one person, or more, was able to bomb, shoot and kill so many people in such a short period. It is a warning to everyone. It is also a wake-up call for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade which might consider advising people on its website that they should not travel unless it is necessary for business purposes, which is different. I am reluctant to travel to Morocco or countries in the area when there is so much instability stemming from Libya, Syria, Iraq and elsewhere in the region.