Cormac Devlin
Question:123. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will report on her visit to Ukraine on 16 March 2026. [22511/26]
View answerThursday, 26 March 2026
Questions (123)
Written answers
Ireland remains steadfast in our solidarity with Ukraine. Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression is now in its fifth year and we are witnessing first-hand the strength and endurance of Ukraine’s leaders and people in fighting for their future.
Minister Thomas Byrne visited Kyiv on 16th March as part of a St Patrick’s Day programme that also included visits to Poland and Moldova. This was the first visit by a Government Minister to mark St Patrick’s Day in Ukraine.
Ahead of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of the year, Minister Byrne engaged with Ukrainian counterparts on preparations for the Presidency, outlined Ireland's continuing support and solidarity with Ukraine, and underlined the importance the Government places on shaping EU policy and decision-making.a
During his visit, Minister Byrne also met with leaders of civil society organisations working across a range of issues including human rights, rule of law, anti-corruption, democratic governance, and electoral reform.
Minister Byrne also addressed the inaugural Saint Patrick's Day reception hosted by the Embassy of Ireland in Kyiv, which was attended by Ukrainian political leaders, by members of the diplomatic corps, by the Irish community and other guests.
Question No. 124 taken with No. 88.