Irish citizens advised to postpone their holidays if planning on travelling to Turkey

Irish tourists who are  be planning on travelling to Turkey are being warned to postpone their trip following the unsuccessful military coup in the country last night.

There were more than 260 people killed in the clashes last night as the army attempted to overthrow current Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, while over 1,400 people were injured in on the streets of Ankara during the chaotic scenes.

Airports in the Eastern European country were shut down last night as confusion reigned, and a flight from Dublin was one of the last flights to successfully arrive in Istanbul before the Ataturk International Airport was closed. The Department of Foreign Affairs have advised Irish citizens to avoid travelling to Turkey if possible.

"We are advising Irish citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Turkey at this time," said a statement from the department.

"The Department of Foreign Affairs and our embassy in Ankara are monitoring the evolving situation in Ankara and Istanbul where a heightened security presence and some incidents of violence are reported.

"The situation is unclear, and Irish citizens considering travel to Turkey are advised to delay travel until the situation becomes clearer.

Travel agents have also acted quickly to quell the concerns of Irish citizens in Turkey, while they are advising those who have holiday plans scheduled to contact ITAA member agents.

“The Irish Travel Agents Association are monitoring the situation in Turkey in close partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs. ITAA member agents are striving to keep customers informed and facilitate anyone who needs to change their travel plans”.

“For anyone with concerns about family or friends currently in Turkey, the Department of Foreign Affairs can be reached on, 01 418 0200.”