The Government has announced a minimum of two consular flights from Great Britain to get stranded Irish residents home to Ireland.
But these will only be open to Irish residents and transiting passengers and not for people living in the UK who were planning a short trip home for Christmas.
The Government has said this is because of the ongoing travel ban due to public health concerns.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney and Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan have said the flights will also be accessible to Irish-bound passengers who are transiting through British airports who have also become stranded.
They will take place Tuesday evening and be operated by Irish airlines.
At least one flight will depart from London, with the other departure airport to be decided by the demand from those who contact the Department of Foreign Affairs assistance line.
Separately, both Ministers have said consular teams have identified a small number of Irish residents who are stranded in Great Britain after taking short trips in their vehicles.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Transport will now make arrangements with ferry companies to give these Irish residents exceptional access to ferry services that are currently for freight only in order to return home.
In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs said: “It is essential that anyone eligible to travel on the consular flights identifies themselves to the Department of Foreign Affairs, demonstrates their entitlement under the criteria, and registers to be included on the flight by calling the dedicated assistance line +353 1 6131700.
“These ferry journeys cannot be booked directly and those eligible to travel must also contact the assistance line on +353 1 613 1700.”
Anyone who travels from Great Britain, or has travelled in recent days, self isolates for 14-days in the interest of public health, the Department said.
The situation regarding further flights will be kept under review.
