Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 March 2022
44. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Defence the part that he or his Department officials have taken in European Union meetings relating to the supply of military equipment to Ukraine; the stand taken by Ireland on these issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13473/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe most recent meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council in Defence format took place via video conference on Monday 28 February. The meeting was to discuss the latest situation in Ukraine, following Russia's unprovoked and unjustified military invasion and the discussion focused on efforts already underway in terms of support to Ukraine through the European Peace Facility (EPF) Assistance Measures.
The European Union has agreed a package of €500 million in military assistance for Ukraine in two separate EPF assistance measures, focusing respectively on (i) supplies not designed to deliver lethal force, such as personal protective equipment, first aid kits and fuel to a total value of €50 million and (ii) a lethal assistance component, valued at €450 million.
On the basis of our participation in the EPF and consistent with the commitments in the Programme for Government, which clearly states that Ireland will not fund lethal equipment through the EPF, Ireland constructively abstained on the lethal equipment package proposed under the European Peace Facility. However, we will pay our full share (approx €10 million) and our funding will go to non-lethal elements such as the provision of additional equipment in terms of personal protection equipment and material support for the armed forces of Ukraine. The provision of this funding will allow the EU to quickly respond to the Ukrainian request and responds to a specific ask from the Ukrainian authorities.
We are continuing to provide strong political and practical support for Ukraine and my officials in both the Department of Defence and the Department of Foreign Affairs continue to engage in all discussions on the matter as required.
In addition, the Taoiseach announced over the weekend that the government will provide a further €10 million in humanitarian aid, adding to the €10 million agreed last week.
Moreover, Ireland has already lifted the visa requirement for Ukrainians wishing to travel to Ireland.
