Written Answers Nos. 21-40
21. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the recent characterisation by the United Kingdom’s foreign secretary of Russia as a ‘mafia state’; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40317/24]
View answerThe domestic political situation in Russia has descended into authoritarianism in recent years and has deteriorated even further since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russian authorities continue to crack down on opposition politicians, civil society organisations, independent media and other critical voices with the use of repressive legislation and politically motivated prison sentences. Ireland and the EU strongly condemned the shocking death earlier this year of opposition politician, Alexei Navalny, in a Russian penal colony as yet another sign of this accelerating and systematic repression.
It has become clear that the intensifying internal repression in Russia and its external aggression go hand in hand. Russia has waged despicable and indiscriminate missile and drone attacks against civilians across Ukraine, aimed at terrorising the Ukrainian population and breaking Ukraine's spirit. At the same time, we have seen an increase in Russian hybrid attacks, including in EU Member States.
Ireland has been clear that Russia must be held accountable for its actions. In our national statements and as part of the EU, Ireland has condemned the situation of human rights in Russia at the Human Rights Council and across various international fora.
Earlier this year, Ireland welcomed the adoption of sanctions under the EU Global Human Rights Regime, in view of the deterioration of the situation in Russia, including the listing in March of a number of individuals and entities linked to Mr. Navalny’s death. In May, Ireland welcomed the introduction of a stand alone sanctions regime targeting those responsible for serious human rights violations or abuses, repression of civil society and undermining democracy and the rule of law in Russia. Ireland also supported calls at the June European Council for work to be taken forward on the establishment of a new sanctions regime in response to Russia’s destabilising actions abroad.
We fully support the investigations of the ICC Prosecutor in Ukraine and are engaging in discussions on the establishment of a special tribunal to prosecute the crime of aggression.
22. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs whether he has discussed with his counterparts in the US the ongoing provision of arms and weapons to Israel which are being used in what the International Court of Justice has called a “plausible genocide in Gaza”, in military raids in the West Bank and now in the Israeli military assault on Lebanon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40656/24]
View answer54. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will condemn the United States for supplying extensive military and political support for Israel as it continues its genocide in Gaza and invasion of Lebanon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40655/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 22 and 54 together.
The United States has a key role to play in the Middle East, with regard to security in the region as a whole and as regards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the situation in Gaza.
I welcome the very clear position of President Biden that a diplomatic solution is the only path to lasting security between Israel and Lebanon. I also welcome and support the ongoing efforts of the US, Egypt and Qatar to conclude a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza. It is long past time that such a deal is concluded. The violence must stop and there must be a dramatic scaling up of humanitarian assistance entering Gaza.
It is vital that all parties in the region demonstrate the political will to return to diplomatic and political pathways to end this cycle of violence. This includes Iran and its proxies, but it also includes Israel. In this regard, it is my strong view that all partners with influence, including the European Union and the US, need to use their leverage more effectively with all actors, including Israel to positively influence the situation on the ground.
We have seen credible reports by a number of internationally mandated institutions, bodies and representatives that serious violations of International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law are taking place throughout the occupied Palestinian territories, including Gaza.
In these circumstances, it is incumbent on all States to assess whether their relations with Israel are consistent with their obligations under international law. The implications of the Advisory Opinion issued by the International Court of Justice in July (on the legal consequences arising from the policies and practices of Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory) must also be assessed by States.
These are points that I will continue to make to all counterparts, including the United States.
23. Deputy David Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to report on the current situation in Sudan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40485/24]
View answer49. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to provide an update on his efforts internationally and at the UN to highlight the humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan; the efforts he has made at the UN General Assembly to achieve a ceasefire and alleviate the humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40517/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 23 and 49 together.
The conflict in Sudan is causing a catastrophic humanitarian crisis. Almost 26 million people - over half the country’s population - face acute hunger. More than 755,000 people are now experiencing famine conditions. Over 12 million people have been forcibly displaced inside Sudan or have fled to neighbouring countries.
The two main parties to the conflict - the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) – are also deliberately blocking humanitarian access and have destroyed critical infrastructure. More than 75% of health facilities in the country are no longer functioning.
Although official estimates put the death toll at almost 20,000, the true number is likely to be significantly higher, with widespread attacks on civilians, sexual and gender-based violence, and attacks on humanitarian workers and civilian infrastructure.
At the international conference on the Sudan crisis in Paris in April, Ireland pledged €12.3 million in humanitarian aid for 2024, an increase of €2 million on our 2023 contribution. This has already been exceeded, reaching €14 million with my announcement in September of an additional €1 million in humanitarian assistance. Ireland’s assistance includes support for partners working on peacebuilding and analysis of conflict dynamics, as well as for Sudanese civil society.
I am deeply concerned by the disproportionate impact that this conflict is having on women and girls. As part of our package of funding in 2024, Ireland provided a specific grant of €2 million to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for reproductive health for women and girls in Sudan and neighbouring countries and for victims of gender based violence.
To pressure the parties to end the conflict, Ireland championed the establishment of a new EU autonomous sanctions regime. The first set of targeted measures was announced in January against six companies, with six individuals listed in June.
Ireland has consistently prioritised support for accountability mechanisms at the Human Rights Council, including urging the renewal of the mandate of the Independent International Fact-finding mission for Sudan.
When I visited the Horn of Africa in July, I undertook to continue to keep Sudan on the international agenda. At the UN General Assembly last September, Sudan was a focus of my engagements, including participation in a Ministerial Humanitarian Meeting on Sudan. Both the Taoiseach and I will address the situation in Sudan and the EU response at the upcoming meetings of the Foreign Affairs Council and the European Council this month.
We will continue to work with the EU and international partners to promote an end to the conflict, to persuade the parties to come back to the negotiating table, and to permit humanitarian access and end all attacks on civilians.
24. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will provide the details of the €36 million package of support for Ukraine announced in September 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40319/24]
View answer31. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the full extent of Ireland’s support for Ukraine since Russia’s illegal invasion of February 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40321/24]
View answer42. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to provide an update on the level of non-lethal aid Ireland is providing to Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28196/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 24, 31 and 42 together.
Ireland has been providing support to Ukraine both bilaterally and through the EU budget since the launch of the Russian full-scale invasion. Ireland makes extensive use of the multilateral system, and works with trusted partners on the ground to ensure a harmonised approach and enable the fast delivery of sustainable support.
On 4 September, I announced with the Taoiseach a significant new package of supports for Ukraine and its neighbours, worth €36 million. This will help provide essential humanitarian assistance, support rehabilitation and eventual reconstruction, and contribute to Ukraine's longer term goals, including peace, stability and political aspirations.
Partners to be supported include UN OCHA’s Ukraine Humanitarian Fund, which has reach across all regions of Ukraine, including significant funding to national Ukrainian organisations, and UNHCR for the provision of shelter and protection to millions of displaced people.
Financial commitments to the UN Population Fund and the World Health Organisation will contribute to work on health infrastructure and in the provision of support to vulnerable women. Ireland will also support the Red Cross family.
Ireland will contribute to the World Bank crisis facility special programme for Ukraine and Moldova, which is aimed at addressing urgent needs, and to the IMF Ukraine Capacity Development Fund supporting the Ukraine policy and reform agenda including EU accession.
A partnership with Lithuania will provide for the construction of bomb shelters in schools in Ukraine.
This announcement brings Ireland’s total support to Ukraine since February 2022 to over €380 million, including approximately €130 million in stabilisation and humanitarian supports and commitments of approximately €250 million of non-lethal military assistance under the European Peace Facility. Our military assistance to Ukraine is fully aligned with Ireland’s policy of military neutrality, and the commitment in the Programme for Government to the provision of non-lethal support.
Ireland has also been participating directly in the EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (EUMAM Ukraine) following Government approval in February 2023. Through Ireland’s participation in EUMAM Ukraine, the Defence Forces have delivered training to over 600 Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel in training modules which include tactical combat casualty care/combat lifesaver, demining/mine clearance, and drill instruction training. The Defence Forces currently have one officer deployed in a senior staff position in the mission’s Operational Headquarters, which operates within the EU’s Military Planning and Conduct Capability in Brussels, while a further three Defence Forces personnel have also been deployed to the multi-national Special Training Command in Germany. Ireland, through the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces, has donated equipment which includes ready to eat meals and body armour from Defence Forces stocks, demining equipment (mine flails) and associated training, and 30 vehicles, consisting of pickup trucks, logistics vehicles and ambulances to the Ukrainian Armed Forces in June and July of this year.
Ireland is also supporting civilian security sector reform through the provision of eight civilian experts to the EU Advisory Mission in Ukraine.
Ireland has also welcomed over 110,000 Ukrainians under the Temporary Protection Directive.
Additionally, a number of significant decisions have been taken at EU level in recent months on opening accession negotiations, establishing the Ukraine Facility, creating a dedicated Ukraine Assistance Fund under the European Peace Facility, agreeing to use the profits from immobilised Russian sovereign assets to further support Ukraine, and on a 14th package of sanctions targeting Russia.
The Taoiseach visited Ukraine on 4 September. While in Kyiv, he met with President Zelenskyy and Prime Minister Shmyhal, and signed a comprehensive bilateral agreement on support and cooperation between Ireland and Ukraine. This new Agreement is a political and practical declaration of Ireland’s support to Ukraine as it defends its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Together with our EU partners, Ireland is committed to supporting Ukraine for as long as it takes as it defends itself against Russian aggression. We will also continue to build support among global partners for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine, based on respect for the principles of the UN Charter and international law, and with justice and accountability at its heart.
25. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to set out the contacts he has had with UN and EU Member States concerning the urgent need to have a ceasefire in Gaza, in particular his contacts with US, Egyptian and Qatari representatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36390/24]
View answer47. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the work he and his Department have done to encourage a ceasefire in Gaza, aside from calling for one. [40633/24]
View answer48. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which he and the Government continue in their endeavours to bring about a cessation of hostilities in the Middle East, unilaterally or through the aegis of the EU/UN; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40587/24]
View answer57. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to outline his engagements at the UN Security Council regarding Israel's ongoing genocide in Gaza. [40630/24]
View answer63. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the efforts being made to bring to a peaceful conclusion the current volatile climate in the Middle East; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40596/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 25, 47, 48, 57 and 63 together.
The ongoing crisis in the Middle East continues to be a central focus of my engagement at EU and international level.
I have had frequent and intensive engagement with EU counterparts over recent weeks, including at the informal meetings of the Foreign Affairs Council in August and September, as well as an emergency meeting of EU Foreign Ministers by video conference on 30 September. These discussions have focused on the situation in the wider region including Lebanon, as well as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. I also welcome that our Arab partners, including Egypt and Qatar, engaged with EU Foreign Ministers at the Foreign Affairs Council in May of this year, with discussions focused on the need for an immediate ceasefire as well as on the Arab Peace Plan.
My intensive engagement with regional and international partners has also continued on both a multilateral and bilateral basis, most recently during UN High Level Week in September. I attended a dinner focused on the Middle East hosted by the International Peace Institute and Qatar, with participation by Foreign Ministers from the region, Spain and Norway, as well as the EU HRVP and Mary Robinson as a representative of The Elders. On Wednesday 25 September, I addressed the UN Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, Ukraine and Sudan. I also met bilaterally with my counterparts from Egypt, Jordan and the State of Palestine.
Ongoing US engagement is essential to finding a solution to the current conflict. The former Taoiseach highlighted Ireland’s position to President Biden when they met on St. Patrick’s Day this year. I have reiterated this in all my engagements with the US and the international community, most recently during High Level Week at the UN in New York last month. The Taoiseach will meet President Biden this week in Washington D.C.
Priorities across all my engagements at EU and international level have included Ireland’s clear and consistent call for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages and humanitarian access at scale to Gaza. I have consistently underlined the need for all parties to comply with international law, including international humanitarian law, and Ireland’s view that the limits under international law on the use of force in self-defence to no more than what is necessary and proportionate have been exceeded by Israel in its military response to the Hamas attack.
During my address to the UN Security Council, I also welcomed the adoption by the UN General Assembly of a Resolution addressing follow-up to the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice. Ireland co-sponsored the Resolution and was one of 124 UN Member States to vote in favour. I have underlined at EU and international level that we, as the international community, must now turn our minds to implementation.
I have also reiterated that Ireland's approach at EU and international level remains grounded in the belief that the only just and sustainable peaceful solution, for both Palestinians and Israelis, is a two-state solution. In this respect, the need for concrete steps towards the implementation of the two-State solution is also a key focus of my ongoing engagement, including with Arab partners.
26. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has identified the need to alter the priorities in Ireland’s aid programmes, in view of the emerging global crisis points; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40314/24]
View answerThe Government shares the deep international concern at the range of emerging and existing global crises, whether they are climate related, caused by on-going conflict and insecurity, or by economic shocks.
With an overarching focus on those furthest behind, our international development policy, A Better World, prioritises reducing humanitarian need, climate action, gender equality and strengthening governance. In current circumstances, these priorities remain wholly relevant and will remain the key areas of focus.
In response to the unprecedented level of need, we provided over €300 million in humanitarian assistance in 2023, up 65% over five years. This includes funding for the top ten countries with the highest numbers of refugees. However, prevention is core to reducing humanitarian need over the longer term. This requires early and sustained engagement on humanitarian, development, peacebuilding and political issues. In 2024, Ireland increased our volume of multi-year and flexible funding, a key enabler of this type of programming.
Ireland has been a long-standing champion of international efforts to combat hunger and malnutrition. Unfortunately, the world continues to face increasing numbers of people experiencing food insecurity, with an estimated 2.3 billion people considered moderately or severely food insecure. In 2023, Ireland provided over €320 million for food, agriculture and nutrition programmes and we have committed to exceeding that in 2024. Ireland continues to support the initiative of the UN Secretary General to establish the UN Crisis Response Group, and the Team Europe response to global food insecurity.
The provision of climate finance to developing countries is critical in the fight against climate change. In response to the worsening climate crisis, Ireland has steadily increased our annual international climate-related expenditure and I am pleased that we will reach our target to provide at least €225 million target to developing countries by 2025. This represents a more than doubling of our climate finance since 2020.
27. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on Ireland’s partnership with Lithuania to provide for the construction of bomb shelters in schools in Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40327/24]
View answerTwo and a half years on from Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine continues to face immense challenges. On 4 September, I announced with the Taoiseach a significant new package of supports for Ukraine and its neighbours, worth €36 million. This builds on the extensive political, humanitarian, military and economic support provided since February 2022 and will provide much-needed humanitarian support and development assistance to people suffering the impact of this unjust war. The funding also recognises the particularly horrific impact of the war on women and children.
Ireland continues to identify community infrastructure which we can help to rehabilitate, to ensure that those communities continue to have access to the essential services they need, and with a view to enabling longer term development. Education and supporting children to continue attending school is an important part of that effort.
Therefore, we are cooperating with the Lithuanian government to contribute €3 million to a programme to build bomb shelters for schools in Ukraine. The Lithuanian Central Project Management Agency oversees the project which engages Ukrainian construction companies. The European Union is currently supporting this programme which utilises the experience of the Lithuanian Central Project Management Agency. Lithuania has valued experience and expertise in the context of development and humanitarian cooperation in Ukraine.
Officials are currently in discussions with their Lithuanian counterparts to finalise arrangements for the partnership. We expect to conclude an agreement and provide the associated funding very shortly. We will also ensure the ongoing monitoring and evaluation of developments with a view to potentially providing further support in the future.
28. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to detail contacts with the Israeli embassy in relation to the Control of Economic Activity (Occupied Territories) Bill 2018 and over flights to Israel carrying military equipment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40659/24]
View answer35. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had any interaction with officials of Israel's government in the last year; and, if so, to recall those interactions. [40632/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 35 together.
Engagement with third-country counterparts is a central part of my work and that of my officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Regarding my engagement with the Israeli government in the past year, I met with then Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen on 16 November 2023, during my visit to the region. During this visit, I reiterated Ireland’s condemnation of the terror attack by Hamas on Israel on 7 October and underlined the need for the unconditional release of all hostages. I also underlined my concern over the catastrophic situation in Gaza and reiterated calls for an immediate ceasefire, an issue upon which Ireland demonstrated early and clear leadership at EU and international level.
Current Israeli Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, engaged with EU Foreign Ministers at the Foreign Affairs Council in January of this year, enabling a further full and frank exchange on the situation in Gaza, during which I underlined Ireland’s concern at potential breaches of international humanitarian law in Gaza, notably with regard to the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution.
Engagement between my Department and the Embassy of Israel is routinely carried out at senior official level. In the immediate aftermath of the terror attack by Hamas on Israel on 7 October 2023, I spoke with the Ambassador of Israel to Ireland, Dana Erlich, underlining Ireland’s condemnation of the attack and expressing my condolences to the people of Israel, including the Israeli community based here in Ireland. I subsequently met with the Ambassador in the context of my meeting with families and representatives of the Israeli hostages, including the family of Emily Hand, on 14 November 2023. I also met with the Ambassador on 1 March of this year, providing an opportunity to convey key priorities and concerns, including the need for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages and scaling up humanitarian assistance. Ambassador Dana Erlich was recalled by the Israeli government for consultations in May 2024.
Regarding the Occupied Territories Bill, the Government’s legal advice is that this Bill is not compatible with EU law, as the EU has exclusive competence for external trade. The Government’s approach has not changed since the matter was considered by the Oireachtas in 2018 and 2019 and it has not been the focus of any recent engagement with my Israeli counterparts or the Embassy of Israel.
Regarding the reports of civil aircraft flights and the alleged carriage of munitions of war, these relate to a number of civil air flights. It is appropriate that the Department of Transport continues to examine the issue with the air carriers concerned, as they have confirmed they are doing.
29. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the funding Ireland is providing to national Ukrainian organisations and the UNHCR for the provision of shelter and protection to millions of displaced people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40564/24]
View answerIreland remains steadfast in our support for the people and Government of Ukraine. Recent escalations in the conflict have driven more people from their homes adding to the 3.6 million already internally displaced. As Ukraine faces into another winter, Ireland's humanitarian funding continues to target the most vulnerable, including women and children, displaced persons and those closest to conflict lines.
In 2024 we are providing €23.5 million in humanitarian assistance for Ukraine. This funding is part of the overall package of €36 million of support, which the Taoiseach and I announced recently in advance of the Taoiseach’s visit to Kyiv.
This funding package includes €5.5 million for the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) for its Ukraine crisis response, including its work to provide shelter and protection for millions of displaced people. This builds on €4.5 million which we provided to UNHCR in 2023, which included €1.5 million in support of their “core homes” project. This involved the construction of pre-fabricated core homes for families whose properties were entirely destroyed due to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The homes were installed on the private land of the families concerned, allowing them to remain on their own property and maintain links to their communities, services, and employment.
Ireland is supporting the work of national Ukrainian organisations through grants to partners like the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC) which provides assistance to the Ukrainian Red Cross Society, working with affected communities to ensure shelter and other needs are met. Ireland also funds the UN's Humanitarian Fund for Ukraine which channels funding to national and community based organisations.
Irish support for Ukraine is multifaceted: political, humanitarian, military, and economic. We have committed €380 million in assistance to the Ukrainian people since February 2022. With this most recent package of funding, Ireland will have provided €62.5 million in humanitarian aid to Ukraine since 2022.
30. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if Ireland has signed up to the recent joint declaration of support for recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40318/24]
View answerIreland joined the EU, G7 and international partners in supporting the Joint Declaration of Support for Recovery & Reconstruction of Ukraine on 25 September 2024. This declaration reaffirms our strong commitment to helping Ukraine meet its urgent short-term financing needs, and to supporting its long-term recovery and reconstruction. At the invitation of Presidents Biden and Zelenskyy, I was honoured to attend an event dedicated to Ukraine’s economic recovery and reconstruction during UN High Level Week last month.
Since February 2022, Ireland has provided significant humanitarian and stabilisation support to Ukraine, focusing on addressing immediate needs and early recovery efforts. We are also engaged in discussions at EU level on short-term recovery and longer-term reconstruction efforts. The EU’s €50 billion “Ukraine Facility”, which was adopted in February and which Ireland strongly supported, includes investment in rebuilding critical infrastructure. We also recognise the important role of the private sector and civil society in these processes, and support a gender-responsive and inclusive recovery effort.
Bilaterally, Ireland funds UNHCR in Ukraine to provide emergency shelter and access to medium-term housing solutions. In 2023, UNHCR provided emergency shelter kits to 172,000 people, repaired the homes of 22,000 families and over 40,800 displaced people benefited from different forms of support in 546 collective sites to which people have been forced to flee.
Ireland has also provided €1.5million to UNHCR for the construction of prefab modular homes, which provide an opportunity for families whose homes were destroyed, to return to their communities and originally owned plots of land.
Ireland will continue to identify community infrastructure which we can help to rehabilitate, to ensure that the most vulnerable continue to have access to the essential services they need, and to strengthen Ukrainian systems, enabling longer term development. We are partnering with counterparts in Lithuania who have significant experience of reconstruction in Ukraine.
32. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason the Irish delegation did not join the many delegations that walked out during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech at the UN General Assembly on 27 September 2024 in protest at Israel’s genocide in Gaza; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40651/24]
View answerIreland’s membership of the United Nations is at the heart of our foreign policy. We take seriously our obligation to translate the values and principles of the UN Charter into action.
Ireland has a long-standing policy of engagement throughout the entirety of the Opening of the General Assembly at the United Nations. In practice this means our seat is occupied for each day of the High Level General Debate, and for every country's National Statement. This demonstrates our commitment to diplomatic engagement and the importance of the UN as an institution.
The urgent need to address the conflict in the Middle East remains a priority for Ireland in our work at the UN. This includes ongoing efforts to advance the two-State solution, achieve a ceasefire and hostage release deal, and ensure the supply of humanitarian assistance at scale in Gaza. We are also advocating for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Lebanon and a de-escalation of tensions across the entire region.
33. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to report on his recent engagements at the United Nations high level week in New York; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40482/24]
View answerI attended the UN General Assembly High Level Week in New York from 22- 25 September. My programme focused primarily on three key foreign policy priorities: the Middle East (particularly Gaza and Lebanon), Ukraine, and Sudan. In this context, I addressed the UN Security Council Open Debate on Leadership for Peace dealing with all three issues. I participated in several meetings and events specifically on the Middle East, including the International Peace Institute annual Ministerial Working Dinner on the issue. I also held meetings with key regional actors including the Foreign Ministers of Egypt and Jordan, as well as with the Palestinian Prime Minister. On Ukraine, I attended the G7+ meeting jointly hosted by US President Biden and President Zelenskyy on reconstruction and recovery in Ukraine. I also participated in the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting which was addressed by the Ukrainian Foreign Minister. On Sudan, I addressed a Ministerial meeting on the humanitarian response to the situation there.
This year, High Level Week included an additional significant event, the Summit of the Future. The Summit brought together world leaders to reaffirm commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals and the UN Charter while enhancing cooperation and laying the foundations for a reinvigorated multilateral system. I participated in the Summit of the Future Interactive Dialogue on “Bridging the digital divide ” on 23 September.
In addition, I had an extensive programme of bilateral meetings and engagements including with the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, the UN President of the General Assembly, the UN Under-Secretary General for Peace Operations in relation to UNIFIL, the Prime Minister of Palestine, and the Foreign Ministers of Indonesia, Sierra Leone, Egypt, and Jordan.
I also participated in a high-level event supporting women’s role in agri-food systems; co-hosted a high-level side event on the inclusion of women in the future of Afghanistan; addressed a symposium event on Women, Peace and Leadership; and attended a working dinner hosted by UN Special Envoy for Education, Gordon Brown.
Finally, in relation to bilateral community affairs, I had the opportunity to officially open the new Ireland House in New York and host an Irish community reception there, as well as participate in a roundtable discussion with Irish community leaders.
34. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to consider providing same-day-turnaround services through the Cork passport office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40595/24]
View answerThe Passport Online service allows citizens to apply online for their passport 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Passport Online is an award-winning, user-friendly, efficient service that consistently offers processing times up to four times faster than paper-based passport renewal applications.
Over 90% of passport applications are made through Passport Online, which is available to 99.9% of all applicants globally.
The Passport Service operates three passport book printing machines: two are located in the main production facility at the Balbriggan campus and the third in the Dublin 2 Passport Office. The printing and dispatch of passports is a highly automated process in what is, essentially, an industrial production system.
The Passport Service estimates the initial capital cost of purchasing and installing a new printer and mailing machine in Cork to be approximately €6 million. In addition to the capital investment, the annual cost of running and maintaining these machines in Cork is estimated to be €600,000.
With only 0.7% of all applicants availing of the one-day Urgent Appointment service available in Dublin 2, serious consideration would need to be given to investing this level of funds to facilitate the very small proportion of applicants who wish to have their passport renewed within one day in Cork.
The public offices of the Passport Service in Cork, and Dublin 2, operate a four-day Urgent Appointment service for renewal applications. There are 224 urgent appointments available , on average, in Cork each week. In 2024 (to date), 31.9% of appointments in Cork have been booked.
I am satisfied that the current Passport Online service and production capacity meets the needs of passport applicants. The Passport Service will continue to consider ways in which to enhance this essential citizen service.
36. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 10 of 27 June 2024, if he will respond to the revelations from a news publication (details supplied) that the Israeli military is in fact using Irish airspace to transport weapons to Palestine; if he or his Department have any plans to act for the people of Palestine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40645/24]
View answerThe prohibition of the unauthorised carriage of munitions of war on civil aircraft is an international rule, as set out in Article 35 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, 1944, known as the Chicago Convention. Article 35 of the Convention provides that no civil aircraft may carry munitions of war in or above the territory of a state without that state’s permission. This is implemented in Irish law in the Air Navigation (Carriage of Munitions of War, Weapons and Dangerous Goods) Orders, 1973 and 1989. Under these orders, the carriage of munitions of war is prohibited on any civil aircraft in Irish sovereign territory and on board Irish-registered civil aircraft, wherever they may be, unless an exemption is granted by the Minister for Transport.
The Department of Transport has confirmed that no applications for exemptions to carry munitions of war were received nor exemptions granted, for the civil aircraft flights which were the subject of recent media reports. Accordingly, the Department of Transport is examining those cases including through engaging with the carriers concerned, to determine whether there may have been a breach of the applicable law.
My Department remains in ongoing contact with the Department of Transport on this matter.
Support for a two-State solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been a longstanding and integral part of Ireland’s foreign policy. As you know, Ireland upheld its commitment to recognise the State of Palestine in May of this year. The Government has consistently called for an immediate ceasefire and hostage release deal and a surge in humanitarian assistance to Gaza. Ireland has provided a total of €56 million in support for the Palestinian people since the beginning of 2023.
37. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if Ireland is preparing any diplomatic initiatives ahead of this year’s UN Climate Conference COP 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40315/24]
View answerIreland is actively involved in negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in preparation for COP29 in Azerbaijan. The Government is engaging on key issues for a successful outcome of COP29, particularly related to strengthening the resilience of the most vulnerable countries.
Each COP Presidency appoints ‘Ministerial pairs’ from developed and developing countries to assist with the COP negotiations. This year, the Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications has been asked to work alongside Costa Rica on the issue of climate adaptation. This is a mediation role to drive progress on negotiations. The invitation to undertake this role is a recognition of the long-track record Ireland has in providing support for adaptation.
I was very pleased that the Government was able to increase the allocation for international climate finance in Budget 2025. This will ensure that we meet our target of providing at least €225 million per year in 2025. Ireland’s steadfast commitment to climate finance for the most vulnerable is helpful in the context of the new collective climate finance goal to be agreed at COP29, the negotiations on which the Government is actively engaged in.
Loss and Damage is another key issue for COP29. Ireland, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, is on the Board of the new Fund for responding to Loss and Damage. We are working actively to ensure that the Fund, agreed at COP 28 last year, becomes operational as soon as possible. Ireland’s main priority remains to ensure that vulnerable countries and communities can access the Fund.
In preparation for COP29, the Department is also supporting the creation of a multi-faith women-led Climate Action network, alongside former President Mary Robinson. This will encourage collaboration among women’s networks from indigenous, tribal and faith traditions, to foster joint climate action.
38. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs when the next European Union Foreign Affairs Council will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40566/24]
View answerI will attend the next Foreign Affairs Council (FAC), which will take place in Luxembourg on Monday 14 October. The meeting comes ahead of the European Council, which takes place on 17-18 October.
Since February 2022, Russia’s aggression in Ukraine has been discussed at each meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council. The meeting next week will be an opportunity to discuss the EU’s continued support to Ukraine ahead of what will be a difficult winter period. It is expected that we will also have the opportunity to hear directly from the new Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Andrii Sybiha.
The deeply concerning situation in the Middle East will also be on the agenda. I will again be underlining the importance of the EU delivering clear messages on the urgent need for ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon, the release of hostages and a rapid scaling up of humanitarian assistance, and the need to avoid further regional escalation. I will also be highlighting the importance of coordination in our consular efforts and in our support for UNIFIL.
We will discuss the upcoming elections in Georgia and Moldova. I remain very concerned with recent moves by the Government in Georgia, which are not compatible with EU core values and jeopardise Georgia’s ability to join the EU.
The upcoming presidential election and EU referendum in Moldova on 20 October are of crucial significance. Ireland will participate in the OSCE election mission in support of an electoral process that is free from outside interference. In addition, we will discuss the situation in the Horn of Africa and Venezuela.
Finally, we will have an informal exchange of views with the UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, David Lammy. When I met with the Foreign Secretary in Dublin last week, we both welcomed the recent agreement of Prime Minister Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to take forward an ambitious agenda of strengthened cooperation at pace over the coming months. I look forward to this work being taken forward.
39. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the actions he has taken to mobilise international opposition to the huge increase in illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36391/24]
View answerI am deeply concerned by the situation in the West Bank, including the ongoing large-scale military operations Israel is conducting, resulting in casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure.
Regarding the wider situation in the West Bank, Ireland welcomed the Advisory Opinion delivered by the International Court of Justice in The Hague on 19 July, which largely confirms the Government’s legal analysis - outlined in Ireland’s written and oral submissions, and presented by the Attorney General to the Court in February 2024 - that Israel’s settlement and related policies in the Occupied Palestinian Territory amount to illegal annexation.
I will continue to engage with partners – in the EU, across the region, and more widely within the United Nations – to see how we can now bring to bear this authoritative opinion by the Court to end Israel’s illegal presence in the OPT, and bring about the full realisation of the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination. This objective formed part of the Government’s intensive engagements at the United Nations High Level Week in New York late last month. Ireland also co-sponsored a UN General Assembly Resolution adopted last month addressing follow-up to the Advisory Opinion. Ireland was one of 124 UN Member States to vote in favour of the Resolution.
I welcome that the European Union has adopted successive rounds of sanctions against violent Israeli settlers under its Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime, in April and in July of this year. We have seen further instances of settler violence in recent weeks and it is important that further listings are considered.
I will also continue my intensive engagement with EU and regional partners to take concrete steps which demonstrate the Union’s commitment to the restoration of a political horizon towards full realisation of the two-State solution.
40. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the funding that will be made available by his Department under the Shared Island Initiative for 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40381/24]
View answer58. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress to date in supporting cross-border and all-Ireland projects through the Shared Island initiative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40382/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 40 and 58 together.
The Shared Island Initiative, which I established as Taoiseach, is a whole of Government endeavour that aims to deliver practical benefits for the whole island by working with all communities for a shared future, underpinned by the Good Friday Agreement.
While the Shared Island Fund is administered by the Department of the Taoiseach, my Department also plays an active role in delivering on the objectives of the Shared Island Initiative, including through the Shared Island Civic Society Fund.
As a complement to the Shared Island Fund, in early 2023 I launched the Shared Island Civic Society Fund to promote practical North South civic society cooperation and engagement across a range of sectors and themes, consistent with the objectives and commitments of the Good Friday Agreement. The fund is a very practical demonstration of the Government’s support for developing cross-border civic society contacts. These relationships and partnerships go to the heart of the Shared Island initiative, bringing different and often very diverse communities together in pursuit of a shared objective.
To date the Shared Island Civic Society Fund has provided funding of €1.5 million to some 100 organisations involved in fifty-five cross border projects across a range of areas such as the environment, community development, heritage, social enterprise, the voluntary sector, and sports.
The most recent round of the Civic Society Fund, through which a further €1.5 million will be provided to support civic society projects in 2025, closed in August this year, and applications are currently being assessed by officials in my Department.
More broadly under the Shared Island Fund, in February of this year, the Government allocated €800 million to cross-border capital projects, the largest such allocation in the history of the State. These projects will help deliver transformative infrastructure, including by contributing to the upgrade of the A5, enhancing road-safety and connectivity across the border region and into the North-West. In addition, landmark cross-border programmes such as a partnership between the Departments of Education, north and south, to tackle educational underachievement are being funded under the Shared Island Initiative.
