Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 March 2022
106. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Defence the involvement the Defence Forces will have in assisting with the settlement of refugees arising from the Russian invasion of Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13362/22]
View answerIreland is continuing to provide strong political and practical support for Ukraine and we continue to assert Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Government has stated that Ireland will play its part in assisting people from the Ukraine and has already lifted visa requirements to allow people from the Ukraine who want to seek safety here in Ireland to do so as easily as possible.
The European Union has agreed a package of €500 million in military assistance for Ukraine. While Ireland has constructively abstained on the lethal equipment package, we are paying our full share (approx €10 million) and our funding will go to non-lethal elements.
The Taoiseach confirmed over the weekend that the Government will provide a further €10 million in humanitarian aid, adding to the €10 million announced on the first day of the invasion.
While the Defence Forces are not a primary response agency for non-security related emergencies, they do provide the fullest possible assistance within means and capabilities to the Lead Department or Principal Response Agency in the event of an emergency situation in its Aid to Civil Authority role. In relation to the settlement of refugees, the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) is the lead Department and they are engaging with my Department and the Defence Forces on land use and temporary shelter options.
Also, logistical support that could be provided by the Defence Forces to the lead Department is currently being explored.
The Defence Forces as always stand ready to provide whatever assistance is possible within their capacity and capability.
