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The Government has announced a minimum of two consular flights from Great Britain to bring stranded Irish residents to Ireland.
But these will only be open to Irish residents and transit passengers and not to people living in the UK who were planning a short trip home for Christmas.
The government has said that this is due to the ongoing travel ban due to public health concerns.
Foreign Minister Simon Coveney and Transport Minister Eamon Ryan have said the flights will also be accessible to Ireland-bound passengers transiting through British airports who have also been stranded.
They will take place on Tuesday night and will be operated by Irish airlines.
At least one flight will depart from London, and the other departure airport will be decided upon at the request of those who contact the Department of Foreign Affairs helpline.
Separately, both ministers have said that consular teams have identified a small number of Irish residents who are stranded in Britain after taking short trips in their vehicles.
The Department of Foreign Relations and the Department of Transportation will now make arrangements with the ferry companies to provide these Irish residents with exceptional access to currently freight-only ferry services to return home.
(Image: Collins Agency, Dublin)
In a statement, the Department of Foreign Relations said: “It is essential that any person eligible to travel on consular flights identifies himself to the Department of Foreign Relations, demonstrates his right under the criteria and registers to be included in the flight by calling the specialized helpline +353 1 6131700.
“These ferry trips cannot be booked directly and those who are eligible to travel should also contact the helpline at +353 1 613 1700.”
Anyone traveling from Britain, or has traveled in recent days, is isolated for 14 days in the interest of public health, the department said.
The situation regarding subsequent flights will remain under review.
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