European Union Affairs Committee to discuss the EU response to the war in Ukraine with Minister of State for EU Affairs Thomas Byrne

Minister of State for European Union Affairs Thomas Byrne TD will address the meeting which will take place in Committee Room 4 of Leinster House between 09:30-12:30. 

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Committee Cathaoirleach Joe McHugh said: “The Committee looks forward to hearing from the Minister regarding his recent trip to Brussels to represent Ireland at the General Affairs Council meeting and the subsequent European Council meeting attended by the Taoiseach. The European Council meeting discussed important matters including the EU response to the war in Ukraine, the adoption of the EU Strategic Compass, economic issues, the Conference on the Future of Europe, and the upcoming EU-China Summit.”

“Ireland and the EU stands united in our response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and supports a robust response to Russia’s attack on Ukraine and against Ukrainian civilians.”

“Ireland is providing €20 million in humanitarian aid to Ukraine and more than 10,000 Ukrainian refugees have been taken in by Irish people with many more expected in the coming weeks.”

“The EU recently announced a rapid assistance package of €500 million to help civilians affected by the conflict. It is essential that the EU continues to provide Ukraine with aid and humanitarian assistance but it is crucial that a sustainable plan is put it place for the long term. We look forward to discussing the EU’s response to the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine to date and other related matters with the Minister.”

Watch the Committee live here or on the Oireachtas smartphone app for Apple and Android.