Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023
30. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs his response to the decision of the United States Government to supply cluster bombs to Ukraine; the status of the treaty that called for the ban of cluster bombs, agreed in Dublin on 28 May 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35915/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland has held a strong and unwavering commitment to the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) since its adoption in Dublin in 2008. Along with the over 100 States Parties to the CCM, Ireland's position remains that these weapons are, by nature, indiscriminate and imprecise.
In line with our obligations under the CCM, Ireland will not use, develop, produce, acquire, stockpile, retain or transfer (directly or indirectly), cluster munitions under any circumstances, and Ireland will continue discourage all actors from using these weapons, even those not party to the Convention.
There are currently 111 States Parties to the CCM and a further 12 signatories. Neither USA, Ukraine, nor Russia are party to the Treaty and so are not directly bound by its provisions.
Ireland will continue to do our part to support Ukraine and its people against the Russian Federation’s unlawful aggression. However, we maintain, in line with our CCM obligations, that these weapons should not be used in any circumstances.
