Malcolm Byrne
Question:11. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to outline events planned for Canada-Ireland 180; and the way in which local communities in Ireland may be able to get involved [37827/26]
View answerCommemorative Events
Questions (11)
Written answers
The Canada-Ireland 180 initiative was developed by my Department and the Department of Communication, Culture and Sports, and the Canadian government to mark 180 years since 1847, a defining moment in the shared history of Ireland and Canada. Over 100,000 Irish people migrated to Canada in search of a better life as a result of the Great Famine, with 1847 the most significant year in that process. From then, Irish-Canadians would became a core part of Canada’s history, national identity and culture.
On his visit to Canada last September the Taoiseach, with Prime Minister Carney, announced the intention to develop a season of cultural and commemorative events in Canada in 2027.
Canada Ireland 180 will seek to honour the past, examine the present, and build a creative vision for the future. Anchored in the memory of Irish migration to Canada, the initiative will illuminate the deep and enduring ties between our peoples, forged in hardship and sustained through culture, values, and community.
The season is being organised as a joint partnership between my Department and the Department of Communications, Culture and Sport, working closely with the Canadian Government and cultural sector. It is due to commence in spring 2027 and to run through the calendar year.
An open call for expressions of interest from artists, presenters and wider organisations, which was advertised in Ireland and Canada, closed on 14 April and has received over 450 applications. Those are now being assessed by the Department of Communications, Culture and Sport and my Department.
As the programme takes shape across its strands of culture, commemoration and community, further opportunities for engagement will be publicised.
Diplomatic Representation
Questions (12, 46, 67)
Cathy Bennett
Question:12. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her proposals to expand the Irish diplomatic footprint in areas with a growing diaspora community [38356/26]
View answer
Edward Timmins
Question:46. Deputy Edward Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the expansions that have taken place and are planned in our overseas embassies and consulates, with particular emphasis on supporting trade; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38396/26]
View answer
Noel McCarthy
Question:67. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her Department’s plans for the opening of new Irish embassies, consulates and Ireland houses over the next two years; if any specific areas that have been identified by her Department as a priority to extend Ireland’s diplomatic reach in the short term; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38213/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 12, 46 and 67 together.
The Government is committed to strengthening Ireland’s place in the world. In the current uncertain and challenging geopolitical context - this is more important than ever.
Since 2018, under Global Ireland 2025, Ireland’s diplomatic footprint has expanded significantly with twenty-seven new diplomatic missions opened. The State agencies have also expanded their overseas presence with new offices in key economic and trade hubs.
The final diplomatic mission to open under Global Ireland 2025 is the new Consulate General in Málaga. The new Consul General has now taken duty and the mission is set to begin providing consular services in the coming months. The new mission in Málaga will be a significant addition to our diplomatic network in addressing the needs of our citizens, both visiting and resident in southern Spain.
Earlier this year in March, the new Consulate General in Melbourne opened. The new Consulate serves the growing Irish community in Victoria, and is already working to deepen bilateral political and economic ties, and support Irish businesses in a thriving economic hub.
In addition to the new diplomatic missions there has been significant expansion of our diplomatic resources in key locations, including in our missions in Washington D.C., Brussels and London.
In December I announced further diplomatic roles at our Embassies and Consulates General in the USA, in Europe, in the Gulf region and in the Asia Pacific region to support the objectives of the Government’s Action Plan on Market Diversification.
We are also currently reviewing our attaché networks and, State Agencies are examining their global footprints in line with diversifying trade and investment markets. Altogether, these are significant investments to bolster our economic capacity at missions and across Team Ireland to support delivery of market diversification objectives.
The Government is also continuing to maximise the impact of our existing overseas offices through the development of Ireland House projects in strategic locations.
A new Ireland House will be completed in Lyon in the coming weeks. New Ireland Houses are expected to be completed in London and Toronto by the end of 2027. A project has commenced to move the current Ireland House in Madrid to a new premises in 2028 and planning is underway to move the Consulate General and State Agencies in Milan to a new Ireland House. The delivery of these five new Ireland House premises will bring the number of Ireland Houses overseas to twenty-four by 2028.
Building on successful implementation of the Global Ireland 2025, the Government is committed to the development of Global Ireland 2040, as an overarching strategic plan to further enhance our place and influence in international affairs, including ever deeper relationships with our European partners. The Government’s Action Plan on Market Diversification, the International Sports Diplomacy Strategy which I launched in February, alongside my colleague, the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, and the recently launched Diaspora Strategy will inform the new strategy.
Decisions on new missions will be taken in the framework of Global Ireland 2040 and the subsequent whole-of-government regional plans committed to in the Programme for Government. All decisions on new openings are based on a robust analysis of how they will support our citizens, contribute to the promotion of our political and economic interests, and promote our culture internationally.
Middle East
Questions (13, 42)
Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire
Question:13. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her views on and her Department’s response to the seizing of the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters by Israeli forces; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38386/26]
View answer
John Lahart
Question:42. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps her Department has taken in response to the reported detention of Irish citizens involved in the recent Gaza-bound flotilla; and whether she has expressed any concerns to Israeli authorities regarding the treatment of those Irish citizens. [38229/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 13 and 42 together.
I am aware of an Israeli operation, beginning on 18 May, to intercept vessels participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters to the west of Cyprus. This has resulted in the detention of 14 Irish citizens.
As I am sure you are aware, I recently condemned the interception of vessels in international waters, and called on the Israeli authorities to release all Irish citizens detained, and to uphold their obligations under international law to ensure the safety and welfare of all those on board the Flotilla.
While my Department has long advised against all travel to Israel and Palestine, in this case, their safety and wellbeing is my primary concern.
I assure you that officials from across my Department continue to closely monitor the developing situation, and that officials from embassies in the region are in regular contact with the relevant local authorities to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all those detained. Our Embassy in Israel has also been in direct contact with the Israeli authorities to secure consular access as soon as possible.
I can further assure you that consular officers in Dublin are also in direct and continuous contact with Ireland-based Flotilla organisers, and with the families of all those detained.
As you know, a similar interception operation took place on Wednesday 29 April in waters close to Greece, resulting in the interception of several ships, and the detention of seven Irish citizens.
I can confirm that all seven Irish citizens were subsequently released in Greece and, were received by officials from our Embassy there, as well as our Honorary Consul, who provided consular assistance. This included the offer of food, water, support arranging accommodation, and access to the means to contact their loved ones at home.
Rest assured, that my Department will provide consular assistance to impacted Irish citizens.
Diaspora Issues
Questions (14)
Grace Boland
Question:14. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of the diaspora strategy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37311/26]
View answerWritten answers
The Government recognises the importance of engaging with the Irish abroad and that maintaining an enduring relationship with the diaspora is as significant as ever to our national identity.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that I launched the Ireland’s third Diaspora Strategy covering the period 2026-2030 at the Global Irish Civic Forum on the 30th of April. Its publication delivers on the commitment set out in the Programme for Government.
In developing our new strategy, I led the largest ever consultation with the Irish abroad, including over 27 in-person meetings, and the first ever online consultation, the Global Irish Survey, which ran throughout the summer of 2025. The purpose of these consultations was to listen to our communities overseas about their needs in a changing world.
The outcome of this extensive consultation process is a strategy that sets out 23 commitments built around the challenges and opportunities that were shared with us.
Supporting the most vulnerable remains at the heart of this new strategy, as is our commitment to partner with Irish communities overseas to promote our culture, music, identity and sport, and to showcase the values of a modern and diverse Ireland to a global audience. We also address the particular challenges facing those who are considering emigrating, those who are newly arrived abroad and those looking to return.
The strategy recognises the real appetite among the diaspora for supporting our trade and economic priorities. We will step up our engagements to embrace these influential networks and vital insights in support of accessing new markets, securing Foreign Direct Investment and driving job creation and innovation.
Our new strategy provides a roadmap for the next chapter of deepening ties between Ireland and the diaspora. I will publish an Action Plan for delivering on its commitments in the period ahead.
Official Engagements
Questions (15)
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:15. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for an update on her recent engagement with the new Hungarian Foreign Minister; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37996/26]
View answerWritten answers
I spoke by telephone to Anita Orbán on 15 April, congratulating her on her nomination as Hungary’s next Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs following elections there on 12 April. I highlighted how greatly encouraged I was by her party’s pledge to move Hungary back into the European mainstream, including in relation to fundamental EU values, the rule of law, human rights and press freedom.
I have since followed up with a letter to Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Orbán now that she has formally assumed her senior role in the new Hungarian government.
During our call, I wished her and her colleagues the very best in their preparations for government. I also took the opportunity to commend the Hungarian people who turned out in such high numbers to exercise their democratic choice in the elections.
I assured the Deputy Prime Minister that Ireland looks forward to working constructively with her and her colleagues including during our upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union. In that connection, I invited her to the informal meeting of EU Foreign Ministers which will take place in Ireland in September. I look forward to meeting the Deputy Prime Minister soon, at the June Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels, her first as Hungary’s Foreign Minister. In that regard, I am greatly encouraged by the government’s newly constructive approach towards EU support for Ukraine along with its more positive position on the opening of accession clusters with Kyiv. Moreover, at the last Foreign Affairs Council, Hungary lifted its long-standing block on the EU’s package of sanctions on violent settlers in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. This is a very welcome move.
During our call, Deputy Prime Minister Orbán and I also reviewed bilateral relations. Our nations’ friendship runs deep, with this year marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations for which our Embassy in Budapest has developed ambitious plans.
The Deputy Prime Minister has a good understanding of Ireland from her time working in the private sector, a familiarity that I hope we can build on. She and I agreed that we will work together to reinforce bilateral ties between our states.
Trade Agreements
Questions (16)
Matt Carthy
Question:16. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she has raised any objection with the European Commission in respect of the decision to provisionally apply the EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement. [37791/26]
View answerWritten answers
The Programme for Government, published in January 2025, stated that the Government would work with like-minded EU countries to stand up for Irish farmers and defend our interests in opposing the current Mercosur trade deal.
On 9 January 2026, EU Member States voted on the EU-Mercosur Agreement, including to grant the Commission the authority to provisionally apply the Interim Trade Agreement (ITA) once the EU and at least one Mercosur country had ratified it. That vote was carried by a qualified majority. Ireland voted, clearly and unambiguously, against the approval of the Agreement.
Given that all four Mercosur countries and the EU had completed their internal ratification procedures by March 2026, the Commission decided to provisionally apply the ITA on 1 May.
I and other Government Ministers, along with officials, have engaged extensively at EU level to voice our concerns with the Agreement. This engagement included European Council meetings, sectoral Council meetings, including the Foreign Affairs Council for Trade Ministers, bilateral engagements in EU Member State capitals, numerous phone calls at ministerial level, working party-level meetings, and ongoing direct dialogue with the European Commission.
As a result of this engagement and efforts made by Ireland and like-minded Member States in the Council of the EU, it is important to state that hard-won improvements have been made to the overall Agreement package, including a new legal act to operationalise bilateral safeguards to protect sensitive products, a financial safety net for farmers, strengthened sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) controls along with a 50% increase in audits and checks, and commitments on the alignment of production and SPS standards, notably on pesticides and animal welfare. The Commission also committed on 7 January to enhance the availability of CAP funding to farmers and rural communities under the proposed new MFF.
I and Government colleagues will continue to engage with the European Commission and with other EU Member States in the time ahead to ensure the full implementation of the commitments obtained from the Commission to address our concerns with the Agreement, including the safeguard provisions.
Trade Agreements
Questions (17)
Richard Boyd Barrett
Question:17. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the communications she has had with Spanish counterparts about their call to end the EU-Israel Association Agreement due to Israel’s violation of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza and escalating violence in the West Bank; if she plans to support the Spanish call to break the EU-Israel Association Agreement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38224/26]
View answerWritten answers
Ireland and Spain first called for a review of the EU-Israel Association Agreement in February 2024. We were among the Member States that supported a Dutch-led initiative in May 2025, which led to a review of Israel's compliance with Article 2 of the Association Agreement. It was clear from the finalised review that Israel is in breach of its human rights obligations under the Agreement.
In advance of the April 2026 Foreign Affairs Council, together with my Spanish and Slovenian counterparts I wrote to the HR/VP requesting a discussion of the EU-Israel Association Agreement at the next meeting of Ministers. The Ministers of all three countries called for the suspension of the Association Agreement at that time, or at a minimum action on the proposal by the European Commission to suspend the trade elements of the Association Agreement.
At the Foreign Affairs Council on 11 May, Ireland again called on EU partners to re-consider the proposal to suspend the trade-related provisions of the Association Agreement. Ireland also requested that the Commission bring forward a proposal to prohibit trade with Israeli settlements on the basis of EU Common Commercial Policy, for decision at the June Foreign Affairs Council.
Ireland and Spain have worked closely together both within the EU and at the international level on the Israel/Palestine conflict. Both countries worked as Co-Chairs of the Working Groups that prepared the UN High-Level Conference on the Implementation of the Two-State Solution in July 2025, and both countries are active participants in meetings of the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.
Ireland will continue to work with all of our international partners, including EU partners, to implement the two-State solution based on 1967 borders, with the State of Israel, and an independent, contiguous, sovereign, and viable State of Palestine, living side-by-side in peace and security and mutual recognition, with Jerusalem serving as the future capital of both states.
Middle East
Questions (18)
Barry Heneghan
Question:18. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if her Department has assessed the humanitarian and security impact of increasing settler activity and restrictions on Palestinian communities in the occupied West Bank, including access to healthcare, education and essential infrastructure; the engagement Ireland has undertaken with international partners on this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38375/26]
View answerWritten answers
Ireland is deeply concerned by the sharply deteriorating situation in the West Bank, in particular the massive expansion of settlements and rampant and escalating settler violence, which continues in an atmosphere of impunity, restricting life for Palestinians across the West Bank.
Ireland, alongside EU partners, is strongly opposed to Israel’s settlement policy and activities, including in and around East Jerusalem. We continue to call on Israel to immediately halt these activities. I welcomed political agreement at the May Foreign Affairs Council on a package of sanctions against violent Israeli settlers and entities, as well as leading Hamas figures, under the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime. I once again called on the EU to suspend the EU-Israel Association Agreement, or at a minimum to suspend the trade elements of the Agreement as previously proposed by the European Commission. I also requested that the Commission bring forward a proposal to prohibit trade with Israeli settlements in the oPt on the basis of the EU’s Common Commercial Policy, for decision at the June FAC.
Ireland is concerned about attempts to suffocate the Palestinian economy and I continue to call upon Israel to release withheld Palestinian tax clearance revenues to the Palestinian Authority. I also call on Israel to take all necessary measures to ensure that correspondent banking services between Israeli and Palestinian banks remain in place.
On 8 April, I announced that Ireland will provide an additional financial contribution of €3 million to the Palestinian Authority for the continued provision of essential public services. This payment is being made via the EU PEGASE instrument and is part of Ireland’s contribution as a member of the Emergency Coalition for the Financial Sustainability of the Palestinian Authority.
The Government is committed to supporting the Palestinian Authority, both politically and financially. Political and economic security in the West Bank is central to its stability and to the security of the wider region, as well as being an essential component to the viability of the two-State solution. Ireland has provided over €122 million in support to the people of Palestine since January 2023 and over €19 million so far this year.
Diaspora Issues
Questions (19)
Cathy Bennett
Question:19. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will report on her engagements regarding facilitating easier return to Ireland for emigrants. [38355/26]
View answerWritten answers
The Programme for Government commits to reducing the barriers for returning Irish Emigrants and this work is underpinned by the Government’s Diaspora Strategy 2026-2030, which I launched at the Global Irish Civic Forum in Croke Park last month.
As part of the development of this strategy, I led the largest ever consultation with the Irish abroad, including over 27 in-person meetings both in Ireland and overseas, and the first ever online consultation, the Global Irish Survey, which received over 10,000 responses.
The result of this extensive consultation process is a strategy built 23 commitments including a specific commitment to facilitate the transition for those who are moving home to Ireland.
Central to our work will be the continued support for the Returning to Ireland (RTI) portal on citizensinformation.ie, which is funded by the Emigrant Support Programme. It will remain the key hub for information on administrative issues such as welfare supports, taxation, education and visas.
I will continue to engage with Government departments with responsibility for issues such as PPS numbers, habitual residence, matters relating to non-EEA spouses, driving license exchanges and the recognition of qualifications.
We will also strengthen its engagement with those who advocate on behalf of those returning to Ireland, particularly those working with marginalised communities and vulnerable returnees. The Department will continue to support the work of organisations such as Safe Home and Crosscare to ensure appropriate supports are in place.
Returning emigrants bring with them new skills and perspectives. We will continue to facilitate our Back for Business programme which provides mentorship to early-stage entrepreneurs returning with the intention of setting up a business.
Progress continues to be made in respect of concluding driving license exchange agreements with US states with a focus initially on New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts.
Ukraine War
Questions (20)
Sean Fleming
Question:20. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the measures she is taking at EU level to target those responsible for the systematic unlawful deportation, forced transfer, forced assimilation, including indoctrination and militarised education, of Ukrainian minors, as well as their unlawful adoption and removal to the Russian Federation and within temporarily occupied territories; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37836/26]
View answerWritten answers
One of Russia’s most brutal and egregious crimes is the large-scale forcible transfer of Ukrainian children from their homes.
Many of these children have been placed in unfamiliar homes or institutions, with Russia concealing their identities and obstructing their return. Some have been subjected to so-called “re-education,” pressured to abandon their language, identity, and nationality. This is done deliberately and systematically.
Ireland condemns the forcible transfer and deportation of Ukrainian children by Russia, which may amount to a war crime, and we call for the return of these children to their families and communities.
On 11 May, I participated in a high-level meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children in Brussels. The Coalition was established by Ukraine and Canada in February 2024 and comprises 47 countries. The Coalition’s work has seen more than 1,800 children brought home. As a member of the Coalition, Ireland is proud to support its important work.
During my recent visit to Ukraine I announced an additional €40 million in humanitarian and stabilisation assistance to be provided this year. This includes €3 million to support UNICEF’s broader humanitarian response to the crisis, including continued support to the short term reintegration needs of returned children delivered by UNICEF within the framework of the “Bring Kids Back” Reintegration Framework.
Ireland’s support also includes funding of €2 million to the International Council of the Red Cross’ dedicated Central Tracing Agency Bureau, which is seeking to clarify the fate of those registered missing with the Red Cross Movement and, to restore contact between members of separated families.
Ireland also provided €1 million in funding to support UNICEF’s operations in Moldova in 2026, which includes the implementation of the Better Care Reform and providing services and care for Ukrainian refugee children there.
These supports align with the Coalition’s aim of investing in the long-term reintegration and recovery of returned children. They are complemented by our ongoing work in supporting the establishment of the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, which aims to ensure accountability for Russia’s full-scale invasion.
In addition, the decision taken on 11 May by the Council of the European Union to sanction 16 individuals and 7 entities who are involved in the forced deportation, indoctrination and militarisation of Ukrainian children is a meaningful action to increase pressure on those involved in such morally repugnant activities.
Ireland will continue to work as part of the Coalition to secure the safe return of every child where that is in their best interest, and to ensure accountability.
Ireland has highlighted this issue in multilateral fora, in our national capacity and as part of the European Union. We co-sponsored a resolution of the Human Rights Council to establish a commission of inquiry to investigate all alleged violations and abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law in the context of Russia's aggression against Ukraine.
Ukraine War
Questions (21)
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:21. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for a report on her recent discussions with the EU foreign affairs ministers regarding Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37995/26]
View answerWritten answers
Ireland and the EU remain steadfast in our support for Ukraine, where the humanitarian situation remains grave and the security threat severe. The threat posed by Russia is not only an existential issue for Ukraine, but a major challenge to the security of Europe.
Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is discussed every month at the Foreign Affairs Council, where I coordinate with my EU counterparts on support for Ukraine, including most recently on 11 May where we were joined by Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Sybiha.
We have made significant progress at EU level recently, including final agreement on the €90 billion Ukraine Support Loan. This loan is essential for Ukraine’s defence amid continued Russian targeting of civilians and critical infrastructure.
Russia can halt its brutal attacks any time, yet it refuses to do. Immediately after the US brokered ceasefire this May – breached by Russia – Russia launched over 659 drones and 44 missiles into Ukraine. These are not the actions of a country seeking peace.
In our discussions at EU level, we have been clear that we must maintain pressure on Russia to engage in meaningful negotiations. I welcome the 20th package of sanctions against Russia. Ireland will continue to support robust targeted sanctions during our EU Presidency.
This month, I attended a meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, co-hosted by the EU, Ukraine and Canada, where I reaffirmed Ireland’s support.
In March, I travelled to Ukraine with my EU counterparts for a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council in Kyiv. At Bucha, we stood in solidarity with the victims of the terrible events inflicted upon innocent civilians by Russian forces in March 2022.
As EU Presidency, Ireland will work with EU and international partners to support Ukraine and support efforts to secure a just, comprehensive and lasting peace. Ireland will continue to work to advance Ukraine’s EU accession.
EU Meetings
Questions (22)
Aisling Dempsey
Question:22. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for a report on the meeting with the Secretary General of the Council of Europe on 24 April 2026. [37816/26]
View answerWritten answers
The Secretary General’s visit to Dublin on 24 April came ahead of the Council of Europe’s annual meeting of the Committee of Ministers, as well as Ireland’s upcoming EU Presidency.
This visit underlines the continued deep engagement Ireland has with the Council of Europe, and reflects our strong commitment to the organisation and its essential role in promoting human rights, rule of law and democracy across Europe.
During his visit to Dublin, Secretary General Berset met with the President; the Minister of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration; and the Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence. Additionally, my Department facilitated a meeting between the Council of Europe Secretary General and civil society organisations from across the island of Ireland.
During his engagements in Dublin, the Secretary General had extensive discussions on a wide range of topics.
Concerning those discussions with the Minister of Sate for European Affairs and Defence, the Secretary General was provided with an overview of Ireland’s priorities for our EU Presidency, including areas of priority in the work of the Council of Europe. Discussions also encompassed the Council of Europe’s important work to secure accountability for Ukraine, including the ongoing work on the establishment of a Claims Commission and a Special Tribunal to Prosecute the Crime of Aggression in Ukraine. The Political Declaration on Migration and the ECHR, which was adopted in Chisinau last week, was also addressed. The significance of the ECHR as a core safeguard of the Good Friday Agreement, and the Government’s unwavering determination to maintain that protection, was underlined on several occasions.
Secretary General Berset was assured on several occasions of Ireland’s full support for the Council of Europe and our readiness to work on strengthening the cooperation between the Council of Europe and the EU during our upcoming EU Presidency.
Humanitarian Aid
Questions (23)
Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire
Question:23. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her views on the humanitarian crisis in Cuba; her views on whether the blockade of Cuba needs to be ended; the steps she is taking to alleviate the crisis; the steps being taken being made to ensure humanitarian aid is provided to Cuba; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38384/26]
View answerWritten answers
Ireland is monitoring the humanitarian situation in Cuba and echoes the UN Secretary General’s deep concern at the growing humanitarian crisis in country. Ireland, along with our EU partners, is of the view that placing an embargo on basic goods, and particularly fuel, simply heightens the suffering of ordinary Cubans.
Ireland has consistently provided humanitarian support to Cuba through our funding of global humanitarian funds, such as the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) and International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Disaster Relief Fund (IFRC DERF).
Ireland also supports Cuba through funding to the World Food Programme and we have committed €100,000 through the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation to assist Cuba in managing food security.
Ireland will continue to engage with Cuba through a range of diplomatic channels, including via the Cuban Embassy in Dublin and through our Embassy in Mexico, which is accredited to Cuba, and through European and United Nations fora.
Passport Services
Questions (24)
Colm Burke
Question:24. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to set out in detail the measures being undertaken by her Department to ensure there is sufficient staff in passport services, given that a spike in volume of passport applications received by passport services occurs during the summer months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38308/26]
View answerWritten answers
The Passport Service is meeting high demand for passports. So far in 2026, the Passport Service has issued almost 400,000 passports.
My Department engages in comprehensive workforce planning and workload management processes, based on forecasted demand for passports. Due to my Department’s vigilant monitoring of passport applications and proactive management of resources, the Passport Service is in an excellent position to meet forecasted demand for 2026.
The Passport Service currently employs a total of 834 staff, which represents 97% of the approved staffing target for this year.
Adequate staffing of the Passport Service to respond to demand continues to be a priority for the Department in 2025 and is an issue that is kept under constant review. To effectively address the increased demand typically experienced during the busy spring and summer period, 76 Temporary Clerical Officers have been assigned to the Passport Service since November 2025, ensuring adequate staffing levels.
The Passport Service continually reviews its internal processes along with levels of demand on a daily basis and offers voluntary overtime to staff when necessary to meet demand, avoid delays and prevent backlogs.
My Department is implementing this year's staffing plan so that excellent customer service is maintained throughout periods of peak demand and is continuing to work to increase resources within the service.
I would ask the Deputy to encourage their constituents to apply for their passports through Passport Online. In particular, those who are travelling in the coming months especially families with young children who require their first passport, should apply online and in plenty of time. The Passport Service advises citizens to ensure their passports are valid before booking holidays and travel.
Passport Services
Questions (25, 77)
Seán Crowe
Question:25. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her views on the requirement for widowed parents to submit death certificates and sworn affidavits each time their child’s passport is to be renewed; if there are plans to amend this requirement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38392/26]
View answer
Sinéad Gibney
Question:77. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if her Department is aware of difficulties encountered by widowed and single parents in renewing their child’s passport; and if her Department is preparing to take action to ensure these parents are supported. [38319/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 25 and 77 together.
I fully recognise the difficulties the current process may present for bereaved families and the Passport Service seeks to be as sympathetic and supportive as possible in assisting bereaved parents throughout the application process. To this end, the Passport Service has scheduled a meeting with Widows and Bereaved Parents Ireland to discuss their concerns.
In terms of the process in place, where a child's guardian is deceased, the Passport Service requests the original death certificate of the deceased guardian and a Sole Guardian Affidavit from the surviving guardian confirming that they are the only guardian of the child.
When one guardian is deceased, it may not always be the case that the surviving parent is the only guardian of the child. For example, a guardian can, in a will or deed, appoint someone else to be a testamentary guardian after he or she dies. In addition, step-parents or other family members may have acquired guardianship of a child following the death of a parent. In order to protect the rights of children and their guardians, the Passport Service needs to confirm each time that it has the consent of all relevant guardians before it can issue a passport.
Passport Services
Questions (26)
Albert Dolan
Question:26. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the current average processing times for passport applications, particularly for first-time applicants; the extent of any recent delays being experienced; the measures being implemented to improve turnaround times and ensure applications are processed within target timelines; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38310/26]
View answerWritten answers
The Passport Service is meeting high demand for passports and has issued almost 400,000 passports to date in 2026.
The advertised passport processing times for applications are:
Online simple adult renewal - 10 working days
Online child/complex adult renewal - 15 working days
Online first time, adult or child - 20 working days
Passport Assist - 6 weeks
The Passport Service is well within advertised turnaround times for domestic applications. There has been an increase in demand for first time applications from international applicants and the Passport Service has increased resources to meet this level of demand.
My Department engages in comprehensive workforce planning and workload management processes, based on forecasted demand for passports. Due to my Department’s vigilant monitoring of passport applications and proactive management of resources, the Passport Service is in an excellent position to meet forecasted demand for 2026.
The Passport Service currently employs a total of 834 staff, which represents 97% of the approved staffing target for this year.
The Passport Service continually reviews its internal processes along with levels of demand on a daily basis and offers overtime to staff when necessary to meet demand, avoid delays and prevent backlogs.
The public offices of the Passport Service in Dublin 2 and in Cork operate a four-day Urgent Appointment service for renewal applicants. The Dublin office also offers a one-day Urgent Appointment service.
In the event of sudden bereavement or serious illness of a family member abroad, an applicant can contact the Passport Office and advise them of the issue. Priority is given to these applications by the Passport Service.
Should assistance be required with an application, Customer Service agents are available by phone and webchat from Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm.
Departmental Strategies
Questions (27)
Naoise Ó Muirí
Question:27. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will outline her Department’s Statement of Strategy to 2029; the way in which her Department aims to strengthen Irish influence across economic policies within the EU; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38335/26]
View answerWritten answers
I would like to thank the Deputy for their question. I was pleased to publish this Statement of Strategy for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, covering the period 2026 – 2029. This document sets out the Department’s mission, alongside high-level goals and deliverable outcomes and outputs we wish to achieve in pursuit of that mission.
We now operate in a continuously evolving and challenging international context. New challenges, many of which most would not have predicted only a few years ago, emerge almost daily. In the face of global uncertainty and increased pressure on international law and multilateralism, Ireland’s commitment to our core values remains steadfast.
The deputy’s specific question refers to the third Goal in the Statement of Strategy ‘To lead and shape the European agenda’, of which economic policies are a core component.
The Government strongly supports the EU’s competitiveness agenda. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade holds horizontal responsibility for EU Policy across government, including coordination of our response to the Draghi Report. This is a whole of government effort, with the domestic implementation and engagement in Brussels resting with the relevant Departments.
Ireland is one of Europe’s great economic success stories. Our experience of Europe’s Single Market as an engine for transformational economic growth has shaped our approach to EU policy-making. We will share that experience during our Council Presidency term.
We will feature competitiveness as a core theme throughout our presidency and will take forward work on the recently published One Europe, One Market Roadmap. This sets out ambitious timelines and deadlines for the agreement of proposals under our Presidency, which will be vital to boosting European competitiveness and building our economic resilience. Working with other Member States, the Commission and the European Parliament, we are determined to drive forward this work.
Simplification is a core part of the Roadmap, and a key enabler of Europe’s wider competitiveness agenda. Both the Letta and Draghi reports underlined the need to reduce the regulatory and administrative burden on EU companies, particularly SMEs.
The European Commission put forward ten simplification Omnibus packages in 2025. Each package usually contains several legislative proposals relevant to multiple Government Departments. My Department has been coordinating Ireland’s approach across Government to these packages, and we will take forward an ambitious simplification agenda during our Presidency. Simplification has to be about better regulation, not deregulation. We need to focus on reducing the regulatory burden, while maintaining high ambition in terms of consumer and environmental protections and other standards.
Trade Promotion
Questions (28)
James O'Connor
Question:28. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the key priorities for trade under her Department’s new Statement of Strategy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38379/26]
View answerWritten answers
On 12th May, just over a week ago, I published my Department’s new Statement of Strategy which will guide the work of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade over the course of the next three years. There are six primary goals in the Strategy, with Goal number 5 in particular aiming to deepen our global engagement and drive our trade and prosperity.
This Statement of Strategy comes at a key moment for my Department as Ireland will assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from the 1st July. Given the current turbulence in the international trading environment, it is key that we maintain our competitiveness and prosperity in Ireland and Europe through engagement with diverse markets. During the Presidency I will chair the Foreign Affairs Council on Trade which will work to strengthen and diversify our trade relations with reliable, global trade partners and will seek to build a more ambitious and mutually beneficial EU-US trade and investment relationship, in line with the on-going implementation of the EU-US Joint Statement. Under the Strategy I will prioritise an ambitious EU Trade policy that supports the growth potential of Irish businesses, particularly SMEs. In that context, I warmly welcome the agreement reached with the European Parliament in the early hours of Wednesday 20 May on the EU-US deal. Stability in the EU US trade relationship benefits us all.
In relation to our ambitions for Ireland’s trade, the Government Action Plan on Market Diversification was developed jointly by my Department and the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment with input from other Government Departments and Agencies. The plan seeks to support Ireland’s businesses in adapting to changing trading environments by striking out into emerging markets and deepening their engagement in existing core markets. There has been significant progress on the plan, with 10 completed early and the majority of medium-term actions well underway.
Specific actions under DFAT’s responsibility that have been completed include the 2026 St Patrick’s Day Programme, the International Sports Diplomacy Strategy, the establishment and meeting of the Joint Economic Commission with the United Arab Emirates (with the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment) and an increase in staffing resources for our overseas missions directly linked to diversification as announced in December. The recent Ireland-LAC Trade Horizons Conference was another key action under the plan.
In line with the Action Plan, there was an enhanced focus on trade and investment for the 2026 St. Patrick’s Day ‘Promoting Ireland Programme’. This is also set out in our Statement of Strategy under the promoting Ireland actions. The programmes undertaken by ministers all emphasised trade, investment and tourism to help create jobs in Ireland, strengthen the relationship with key economic partners, and engage with Ireland’s diaspora. My own programme in Boston featured a number of trade promotion engagements with EI, IDA, and Bord Bia.
The Statement of Strategy is also about engaging with all of our economic stakeholders who have a role to play in advancing our economic prosperity. As part of this I also engage directly with business stakeholders to gain their insights on the changing trading environment through the Government Trade Forum. Deputies can find the first Implementation Progress Report on the Market Diversification Action Plan and the agendas and minutes of the Government Trade Forum on the Digital Ireland House, Ireland.ie.
Legislative Measures
Questions (29, 33, 52, 56, 60, 72, 76, 80)
Roderic O'Gorman
Question:29. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the Government’s current position on the Israeli Settlements (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2025; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38341/26]
View answer
Louis O'Hara
Question:33. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for an update on the Control of Economic Activity (Occupied Territories) Bill 2018; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36516/26]
View answerSinéad Gibney
Question:52. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will set out a timeline for the introduction of the Israeli Settlements (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2025 as well as its current status; if a sanctions package against Israel is being considered; and if she will highlight any steps or processes taken in relation to this. [38317/26]
View answer
Thomas Gould
Question:56. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for an update on the Israeli Settlements (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2025. [38215/26]
View answerRoderic O'Gorman
Question:60. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for an update on the progress of the Israeli Settlements (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2025; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38339/26]
View answerRoderic O'Gorman
Question:72. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to outline when her Department will publish its proposals in relation to the Israeli Settlements (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2025 on foot of advice from the Attorney General; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38340/26]
View answerRoderic O'Gorman
Question:76. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to outline her plans to review the Israeli Settlements (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2025; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38342/26]
View answer
Paul Murphy
Question:80. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade when the Government’s Bill to ban trade with the occupied territories will be introduced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38330/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 29, 33, 52, 56, 60, 72, 76 and 80 together.
Work is advancing across a number of strands in relation to the Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill. Any legislation must be legally robust, able to withstand challenge and progress the Government's broader policy agenda.
In June 2025, the Government approved the General Scheme of the Bill. The Bill's main purpose is to prohibit the importation of goods into the State from Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory, in line with the Programme for Government commitment.
Legally, the regulation of external trade in services is considerably more complex than is the case with goods at EU level. There would also be greater complexity when it comes to implementation than is the case with regard to trade in goods.
The Government has received the Attorney General’s advice on the question of whether the inclusion of services in the Bill is permissible under EU law. Advice provided by the Attorney General to the Government is confidential and subject to legal professional privilege, so you will appreciate that I cannot be drawn to discuss or speculate on the contents of the advice. However, I can say that the advice, which is detailed and extensive, identifies a number of significant legal and practical issues with the regulation by a Member State of trade in services with a country or territory outside the EU.
Following detailed consideration by officials in my Department, clarification was sought from the Attorney General on a number of legal issues. My Department has now received this clarification and officials are closely examining it.
It remains the Government’s preference that collective action would be taken at EU level and we continue to pursue this.
At the May Foreign Affairs Council, I requested that the European Commission bring forward a proposal to prohibit EU trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory, on the basis of the EU's Common Commercial Policy and for decision at the June Foreign Affairs Council. A number of other Member States also supported taking actions relating to the EU's trade with Israel.
I have also called for the suspension of the Association Agreement, or at the very least the suspension of the trade elements of the Agreement as proposed by the European Commission in September 2025, at both the April and May Foreign Affairs Councils.
I welcome the political agreement at the May Foreign Affairs Council on a package of sanctions against violent Israeli settlers and entities, as well as leading Hamas figures, under the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime. This is an important step.
I reiterate that the Government supports effective and appropriate action in response to egregious Israeli breaches of human rights and democratic principles, and actions that undermine the viability of the two-State solution.
EU Meetings
Questions (30)
Ryan O'Meara
Question:30. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for an update on the recent meeting of the EU General Affairs Council. [37991/26]
View answerWritten answers
Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne T.D. attended the informal meeting of the General Affairs Council (GAC) in Cyprus on 10-11 May. Ministers held discussions on the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028-2034 and enlargement, followed by a working lunch on foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) with UK Minister for the Constitution and EU Relations Nick Thomas-Symonds.
Minister Byrne also held bilateral meetings on the margins of the meeting with Minister Thomas-Symonds, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Taras Kachka, and Bosnian Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Josip Brkic.
The last formal meeting of the GAC took place on 17 March. The meeting included discussions with the Ukrainian Deputy PM Kachka and the Moldovan Deputy PM, as well as a working lunch on the MFF with the European Parliament. Ministers also prepared for the March meeting of the European Council and held a policy debate on the MFF and the 2026 European Semester roadmap and synthesis report.
The Council also agreed the amendment to the EU Electoral Act that will allow for proxy voting in the case of MEPs on maternity leave. There were two AOB items – the first from France on new own resources in the context of the next MFF and the other from Spain presenting a non-paper on the EU pilot project for a digital age verification system. An Intergovernmental Council (IGC) with Montenegro was held on the margins of the Council meeting.