Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 April 2023
167. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to indicate, notwithstanding the tragic experiences in the western Balkans, the extent to which safe havens or other security enclaves can be provided for refugees from various locations of war and conflict; if the vulnerability of such refugees can receive humanitarian reception/treatment regardless of their location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20157/23]
View answerIn recent years, there have been repeated calls for the establishment of a variety of arrangements to provide refugees and internally displaced peoples with increased protection in countries affected by armed conflict and in neighbouring states. The Government believes it is essential that the international community continue to provide humanitarian assistance and protection to displaced people.
Ireland strongly believes in the importance of protecting and assisting refugees fleeing from conflict and persecution, regardless of their nationality or location. We remain committed to playing our part in addressing the crisis of forced displacement. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) estimate that in 2023 over 117 million people will be forcibly displaced or stateless in 134 different countries. This is a global crisis requiring a global response. Through our core funding of UN agencies, the Red Cross and NGO partners we make a significant contribution to addressing the needs of vulnerable groups including displaced people.
Working through partners such as UNHCR, we support international action to protect people forced to flee conflict and persecution and those denied a nationality. Total funding from Ireland to UNHCR has risen from €9.8 million in 2015 to €25 million in 2022. We further support those affected by conflict and violence through our support of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), an independent, neutral organization ensuring humanitarian protection and assistance for victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence. In 2022, Ireland provided the ICRC with €19.5 million in funding.
Ireland is committed to providing support to those in need, and to working towards long term solutions for displaced people. We will continue to advocate for the protection of and provision of assistance to refugees, and will work with our partners in the international community to ensure that their rights are respected and their needs met.
