Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 February 2024
161. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is aware of recent reporting that the EU has developed a confidential plan to cut-off all EU funding to Hungary in the event that Hungary exercises a veto with respect to EU funding for Ukraine (details supplied); if Ireland is a party to this plan; if Ireland has been involved in drawing up or signing off on this plan. [4808/24]
View answerI understand that the document referred to in the article provided by the Deputy is an internal document produced by the Council Secretariat under its own responsibility. I further understand that this is a factual account of the Hungarian economy and does not reflect the status of the ongoing negotiations. The document note does not outline any specific plan relating to the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and Ukraine Facility, nor does it outline any plan relating to Hungary. Negotiations are ongoing; and have always been based on finding a compromise acceptable to all 27 EU Member States.
Structured and multiannual financial support to Ukraine continues to be Ireland’s most significant priority under the Mid-Term Revision of the MFF. It is important that the EU shows leadership by agreeing on a financing solution for Ukraine as soon as possible. It is also important that we send a strong signal to Russia on our united and unwavering position in support of Ukraine.
I hope that Hungary will join other EU Member States in supporting Ukraine on 1 February. Ireland will work constructively with all Member States to find a way forward and deliver the critical financial support.
