Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 October 2022
220. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which progress is or can be reported in relation to Ukrainian access to the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49417/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland is a strong supporter of enlargement of the European Union, provided that candidate countries meet the necessary conditions for membership. We recognise the value of enlargement as a transformative driver for stability, peace, and economic growth.
I welcomed the 23 June decision of the European Council to grant EU candidate status to Ukraine, as well as to Moldova. The decision was a clear signal of hope to the people and Government of Ukraine about their place in the European family. It was a message that Europe stands with them now, that we will continue to stand with in the future, and that we will support the rebuilding of Ukraine.
On 17 June, the European Commission had published an Opinion on the EU membership applications of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia. The Opinion essentially gave a blueprint for the steps the three countries should take to move closer to EU membership.
The Commission has announced its intention to review the three countries' applications for membership, on the basis of the priorities set out in the respective Opinions, at the end of 2022.
