Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 May 2024
98. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs for an update on any action being taken to ensure the accountability of the Russian Federation for its actions in Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20580/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government has been consistent in the pursuit of accountability for Russia’s illegal and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine. As the first permanent international court with the power to prosecute international crimes, the International Criminal Court (ICC), has a crucial role to play fighting impunity for international crimes that have been committed in Ukraine. In March 2022, Ireland was one of 43 states to refer the situation in Ukraine to the ICC in order to enable the ICC Prosecutor to immediately start an investigation.
On 2 April 2024, then Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Peter Burke TD underlined Ireland’s commitment to accountability at the Restoring Justice for Ukraine Conference in The Hague, by announcing a €1 million voluntary contribution to the Office of the Prosecutor of the ICC. This funding forms part of Ireland’s overall €3 million voluntary contribution to the ICC announced in November 2023 for all situations before the Court, including Ukraine and Palestine. This is in addition to the €3 million voluntary contribution to the ICC made in 2022 and to Ireland’s annual assessed contribution, which was €1.5 million in 2024.
The Government also supports efforts to ensure accountability of the Russian leadership responsible for the crime of aggression. Ireland is one of 40 states, plus the EU, in the Core Group for the Establishment of a Special Tribunal to Prosecute the Crime of Aggression in Ukraine. Ireland participates in regular meetings of the Core Group to address the complex legal and practical issues that arise in trying to establish a credible, legitimate and effective tribunal to deal with this crime.
Ireland, is also a founding participant of the Register of Damage, which will serve as a record of evidence and information on claims of damage, loss or injury caused by Russia’s actions in or against Ukraine. The Register launched its claims submission process on 2 April 2024. The Government view the Register as an important first step towards the creation of an international compensation mechanism to hold Russia accountable to victims of its aggression.
