Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 May 2024
92. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had discussions with his EU counterparts on what can be done to intensify the provision of humanitarian and civil protection assistance to Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20575/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland has been steadfast in our support for the people and Government of Ukraine. We will continue to work closely with our EU partners to ensure Ukraine gets the support it needs to continue to defend itself against Russian aggression, and to address the humanitarian consequences.
The European Council in March again confirmed the European Union’s unwavering commitment to provide comprehensive and multifaceted support to Ukraine and its people, including through the recently agreed Ukraine Facility which commits €50 billion in grants and loans. The EU collectively has provided some €85 billion in support to Ukraine.
Ireland has provided over €90 million in stabilisation and humanitarian support for Ukraine since February 2022, with commitments to date of some €250 million in non-lethal military assistance under the European Peace Facility. Our humanitarian assistance has focused on those most vulnerable and targets critical needs.
Ireland has also provided significant in-kind assistance through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM), including support to the health and energy sectors which are vital in the face of repeated Russian attacks on this critical infrastructure. This is the largest UCPM operation to date with the Commission and Member States providing in kind assistance of over EUR 796 million.
We remain committed to supporting Ukraine for as long as it takes. This year, we plan to provide over €20 million in humanitarian assistance, with additional funding to be allocated to support development and recovery efforts.
