‘We’re doing all we can’, says Thomson following Tunisia tragedy
Thomson and First Choice has issued a statement attempting to reassure customers with friends and family caught up in the Tunisia tragedy that it is doing all it can to provide information as fast as possible.
"Today, the priorities of Thomson and First Choice remain to provide support to the families of those who so tragically lost loved ones in Friday’s incident, caring for the injured and bringing home those customers from Tunisia who wish to return," it said.
"We are aware that some families continue to wait for news of their loved ones.
"We would like to reassure those in this position that we are doing everything we can to provide information as soon as we are able to do so."
The release of the statement followed comments made to the media and online about the amount of time it has taken to identify the casualties.
One travel agent who was trying to help friends find their mum in Tunisia complained on the Facebook site Travel Gossip that the Thomson helpline set up immediately after the incident consisted of a recorded message.
Others have complained about the lack of official confirmation of the names of those killed by the lone gunman who ran amok in the beach resort of Sousse, killing 38 people, most of them British holidaymakers.
"As has been widely reported, the authorities are required to undertake a number of rigorous procedures in circumstances such as this which can take time," added the statement.
"We have been working closely with the FCO [Foreign Office] and Metropolitan Police and, once they have completed their initial formalities, we are offering all possible support to the families of those who have died or have been injured. This includes, should they wish to, flying them to and from Tunisia.
"We are also in close contact with the injured who remain in Tunisia and who are receiving medical care. Again, we are providing them with as much assistance as possible through our resort teams on the ground.
"In addition, we have returned over 4,000 customers to the UK since Friday.
"Further statements will be made as information is received."
Anyone with concerns about friends and families should continue to call 0800 0885372.
The number for other TUI related queries for future departures to Tunisia:
0800 0093835
Landline number:
(+44)2036361996
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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