Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 January 2023
110. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will provide an inventory of non-lethal supports that have been provided by Ireland to Ukraine, within a foreign policy context; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4090/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhile Ireland is militarily neutral, the Government has been clear that Ireland is not politically neutral in terms of our response to Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war against Ukraine. Ireland believes in and is fully committed to the core principles enshrined in the UN Charter. These include the sovereign equality and territorial integrity of States.
Ukraine has the same fundamental right as every other sovereign and independent State to choose its own foreign policy and to ensure the security and defence of its own territory.
Together with other EU partners, we remain strongly committed to supporting Ukraine in defence of its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, in the face of ongoing Russian aggression.
At EU level, and in this context, we have joined other Member States in agreeing approximately €3.5 billion in support under the European Peace Facility (EPF) to Ukraine.
In line with the Programme for Government, Ireland’s support for Ukraine under the EPF is directly solely towards non-lethal assistance. In this regard, our contribution now stands at approximately €77 million and helps to supply items such as medical equipment, food, personal protective equipment and fuel.
In addition, Ireland has previously provided approximately 10 tonnes or 5,000 units of ready-to-eat meals and 200 units of body armour from Defence Forces stocks to Ukraine.
In terms of humanitarian assistance Ireland was among the first to respond to the crisis in Ukraine, I announced a significant Irish Aid package on the first day of the invasion that subsequently increased to €20 million. This comprehensive package is funding both the UN Appeal, Red Cross movement and Irish based NGOs.
Last month my Department announced the provision of €25 million in funding channeled quickly and efficiently through trusted partners, to assist the Governments of Ukraine address immediate challenges arising out of the war in Ukraine, with an emphasis on support for the civilian population.
