I propose to take Questions Nos. 53 and 61 together.
The continued suffering of civilians in Syria remains a source of deep concern. I am particularly concerned by the impact of the recent fighting in the Afrin region, including the displacement of over 100,000 civilians.
Ireland strongly welcomed the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2401 calling for an immediate ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access on 24 February. Ireland regrets that this has not yet been implemented and calls on the international community to redouble efforts to ensure the immediate and full implementation.
Officials from my Department met with the Turkish Ambassador to Ireland in early February, shortly after the commencement of the Turkish operation. They conveyed Ireland’s overarching concern for the protection of civilians, including in the context of this particular operation, and urged caution to avoid escalating the conflict any further.
Moreover, at the EU-Turkey leaders’ meeting in Varna on Monday, the EU informed President Erdogan of the EU’s concern regarding Turkey’s actions in Syria, in particular the situation in Afrin. They stressed that escalating violence and displacement in an already tragic and volatile situation must be avoided. They also emphasised Turkey’s responsibility to ensure the protection of civilians and the delivery of humanitarian assistance to all those in need.
Ireland and the EU understand Turkey’s concern about the conflict raging on its southern border. Turkey has borne a heavy burden in terms of knock-on effects of the conflict, including in terms of migration and spill-over of violence. However, our primary concern is for the safety and well-being of civilians on both sides of the border, especially displaced and vulnerable communities.
Ireland is a long-standing supporter of the UNHCR which has been providing humanitarian assistance in response to the developing crisis in the Afrin region. Ireland provided core funding of €7.5 million to UNHCR in 2017. Core funding enables UNHCR to respond efficiently and effectively where assistance is most needed, including in response to sudden displacement emergencies. Ireland has also provided over €7 million to UNHCR specifically for its response to the Syria crisis since 2012.
I take this opportunity to reiterate my call on all parties to exercise restraint in order to avoid any further exacerbation of this already fragile situation, and to cooperate in the effort to find a political solution under UN auspices. This alone can bring lasting peace to Syria.
