Written Answers Nos. 187-210
187. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade when she expects to bring forward the Israeli Settlements (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2025 to the Houses of the Oireachtas; if she will consider including a ban on services in the Bill to ensure maximum effectiveness of the sanctions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40932/26]
View answerOn 26 May, the Government approved the text of the Israeli Settlements (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026. The main purpose of the Bill 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.
Once the Bill is enacted and commenced, the importation of goods originating in the settlements into Ireland will be an offence under section 14 of the Customs Act 2015.
The Government has a responsibility to ensure that any legislation is capable of being implemented effectively, is legally robust and able to withstand challenge.
The Government sought and received advice from the Attorney General on the legal permissibility of an EU Member State adopting measures to prohibit trade in services with a third country or territory.
In the case of goods, a public policy exception exists in the EU regulation which controls the import of goods. This allows Member States to adopt prohibitions on the import of goods for public policy reasons.
There is no equivalent or similar broad public policy exception relating to external trade in services.
In addition, given the nature of trade in services, which are wide-ranging and in many cases digital or intangible, there would be huge challenges regarding the effective implementation and enforcement of any such restriction on trade in services.
It should be noted that a number of EU Member States have taken steps, or are in the course of taking steps, to enact similar measures, all of which focus primarily on prohibiting the importation of goods.
It remains the Government’s preference that collective action would be taken at EU level, and we continue to pursue this as this will have a greater impact.
188. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding the situation of Irish activists detained by Israel; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40933/26]
View answerI am aware of a recent Israeli operation that took place from 18-19 May to intercept vessels participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters to the southwest of Cyprus. This was the second such operation to take place in international waters, and it resulted in the detention of 14 Irish citizens.
As I am sure you are aware, I 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.
I am appalled by the treatment of illegally detained participants of the Global Sumud Flotilla, including Irish citizens. The Taoiseach has written to the President of the European Council to express his grave concern about the shocking treatment of EU citizens. Ireland has also been clear over many months on the need for action at EU level in response to egregious Israeli breaches of human rights and international law.
At my instruction, Ireland’s Ambassador to Israel demanded immediate assurances that the welfare and wellbeing of all Irish citizens be safeguarded, that they would be treated with dignity and respect, and that they be afforded all the protections that they are entitled to under international law.
I can assure you that throughout this period, officials from my Department, in particular teams from our embassies in the region, were in regular contact with the relevant local authorities to advocate for the safety and wellbeing of all those detained. Officials from the Embassy of Ireland to Israel were present on the ground to seek consular access at the detention centre, and later at the airport ahead of the deportation of our citizens and other detainees.
I am pleased to confirm that all our citizens arrived in Istanbul on Thursday, 21 May, where they were met by a consular team from the Irish Embassy to Türkiye, which offered them all appropriate consular assistance and support.
I can further assure you that consular officers in Dublin were also in direct and continuous contact with the Ireland-based Flotilla organisers, and with the families of all those detained.
I am happy to confirm that all our citizens have since returned home, either to Ireland, or to their place of usual residence. Eleven of the 14 originally detained arrived safely in Dublin on Saturday 23 May.
I can assure you that throughout this process, the safety and wellbeing of our citizens was my primary concern.
189. Deputy Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will follow the example of France and other countries in banning Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from Ireland (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41289/26]
View answerThe Government is appalled by the treatment of illegally detained participants of the Global Sumud Flotilla, including Irish citizens. The Taoiseach has written to the President of the European Council to express his grave concern about the shocking treatment of EU citizens, noting that the treatment of the participants of the Flotilla is yet another expression of Israel’s disregard for the rule of law, and as such forms part of a pattern of behaviour that the Government has consistently argued requires an appropriate response by the EU. My Department worked to ensure every available consular support was provided to all our citizens, and remained in close contact with their families in Ireland throughout. The safety and welfare of Irish citizens remained our absolute priority at all times.
Ireland strongly 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. However, we believe that further action is required. Ireland has been vocal in its support for additional sanctions and welcomed proposals from the European Commission last September to sanction extremist Israeli ministers and violent settlers.
The adoption of sanctions at the EU-level require unanimity and Ireland has consistently and strongly urged our fellow Member States to support these proposals.
It remains the Government’s preference that collective action would be taken at EU level. This will increase their reach and impact.
190. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will provide a report on the progress made implementing the Programme for Government commitments within her remit and on the achievements since the formation of the Government; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41386/26]
View answerMy Department has made significant progress in delivering on our commitments under the Programme for Government since the formation of the Government. Updates on commitments on which the Department leads, co-leads or plays a significant role are set out below.
The Department also contributes to the delivery of a number of other Programme for Government commitments that are led by other Government departments.
|
Commitment |
Progress |
|
Use the resources of our diplomatic missions and agencies to deliver ambitious targets |
The mission network continues to deliver on all aspects of our high level objectives, guided by the Department's Statement of Strategy, by deepening our global engagement and driving trade and prosperity, responding to the complex global geopolitical context, serving our citizens and communities abroad, and promoting peace and reconciliation on the island of Ireland. The mission network works in close partnership with State agencies as part of Team Ireland overseas. |
|
Support a new US-based Economic Advisory panel which would be made up of senior Irish or Irish-linked decision makers in key business sectors. |
The Strategic Economic Advisory Panel (SEAP) was established in Q1 2025. SEAP meetings were held in Washington, D.C. and New York during high level visits by the Taoiseach and Tánaiste in 2025. The Taoiseach chaired the fourth meeting of SEAP during his St. Patrick’s Day visit to Washington, D.C. in March 2026. The Taoiseach updated senior business leaders on efforts to strengthen Ireland's competitiveness and on EU policy, including Ireland's EU Presidency. The next meeting of SEAP is tentatively scheduled for Q4 2026 or early 2027. |
|
Support an open, multilateral, rules based trade system, promoting free trade policies and economic growth. |
The Government Action Plan on Market Diversification includes a number of actions that support an open, multilateral, rules-based system that promotes free trade policies and economic growth. The first Implementation Progress Report on the Action Plan was published in March 2026 and is available on Ireland.ie. DFAT led on Ireland’s participation at the 14th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organisation (26-29 March in Cameroon), focused on shoring up the multilateral trading system and efforts to reform the organisation. DFAT coordinated national engagement at the OECD where Ireland takes a consistent approach in support of an open, multilateral, rules-based trade system, promoting free trade policies and economic growth. DFAT also coordinates Ireland’s participation in the G20, where Ireland participated as a guest of the South African Presidency in 2025 and continues to do so having been invited to participate in the G20 under the US Presidency 2026. |
|
Support an ambitious EU trade agenda, promoting new Free Trade Agreements, with proper assurances regarding sustainability, human rights and the protection of our agricultural sector. |
Ireland engaged intensively with the European Commission and other Member States to defend Irish interests and adapt to the new EU-US trade relationship, successfully mitigating some of the potential worst-case outcomes. Ireland also contributed positively to significant progress being made across a range of trade negotiations, including the conclusion of negotiations with Indonesia, India and Australia in their respective Agreements. Ireland was active in seeking to secure agreement between the Council and the European Parliament on revising the EU GSP Regulation. Political agreement was reached on 1 December. The Arbitration (Amendment) Bill 2025 completed Report and Final Stages in the Dáil on 15 April 2026. The Bill, which is currently being debated in the Seanad, will enable ratification of CETA and other international agreements containing similar investment dispute resolution provisions. The Government Trade Forum, an important forum for discussion on trade matters, including the EU trade agenda, was established in February 2025 and has convened on 12 occasions since its establishment. |
|
Work with like-minded EU countries to stand up for Irish farmers and defend our interests in opposing the current Mercosur trade deal. |
The Government continued to engage at EU level – with both the European Commission and with counterparts in like-minded EU Member States – to voice our concerns with the EU-Mercosur agreement and to interrogate the outcome of negotiations to assess if our concerns have been adequately addressed. Ireland voted against the EU-Mercosur Agreement in January 2026. |
|
Ensure there is continued support for climate finance delivered through Ireland’s Official Development Assistance programme, particularly in areas where communities are vulnerable to climate impacts. |
At COP26, the Taoiseach committed that Ireland would provide at least €225 million in international climate finance to developing countries annually by 2025. The latest annual climate finance report, published in April, shows that Ireland has more than doubled our climate finance since 2020, reaching €207.7 million in 2024. Ireland remains fully on track to have reached the 2025 target. |
|
Actively support climate initiatives to address the severe effects of drought, famine, and lack of clean water in collaboration with international partners. |
Ireland provided funding to emergency response pooled mechanisms to respond to climate induced disasters in the most fragile contexts. This included €5.5m to the UN Central Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) Climate Action Account and €4m in total to the Red Cross Global Climate Resilience Platform and Start Ready. In addition, Ireland continued its partnership with Concern Worldwide, providing €5 million for activities addressing acute malnutrition (wasting) in drought-prone border regions of Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya. |
|
Actively advocate for the rights of LGBTQI+ individuals both in Ireland and internationally |
The promotion and protection of the rights of LGBTQI+ persons is a domestic and foreign policy priority for Ireland. Ireland participated in the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOT) and annual Pride events again in 2025 and will do so in 2026. Ireland is a member of the Equal Rights Coalition, and met with the group regularly to continue to work on the promotion and protection of the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons globally and countering the current pushback on LGBTQI+ rights. |
|
Engage in discussions at key international forums, including the EU and the UN, to uphold the universal nature of human rights, ensuring that these rights apply equally to all individuals, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic. |
Ireland strongly supported the renewal of the mandate of the UN Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) at the 59th session of the Human Rights Council (HRC59). Ireland also delivered national statements at HRC59 and the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly in Interactive Dialogues with UN experts on SOGI. Ireland is also a member of the Group of Friends of the mandate of the Independent Expert on SOGI. Ireland regularly raises the rights for LGBTQI+ people through the HRC Universal Periodic Review process and has chosen to prioritise gender equality and the rights of LGBTQI+ persons in the context of its campaign for membership of the HRC for the 2027-2029 term. Ireland is a candidate for election to the Human Rights Council for the term 2027-2029, with elections due to take place in October 2026. |
|
Give effect to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance ‘Working Definition of Antisemitism’ and implement the EU declaration on ‘Fostering Jewish Life in Europe’. |
Senior members of the Government have met regularly with representatives of Ireland’s Jewish communities, including the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste, the Minister for Justice, and the Minister of State for European Affairs. Minister McEntee met with representatives of Ireland’s Jewish community in January 2026. DFAT officials also maintain regular contact with the Jewish community. In 2026, Ireland is providing €100,000 to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation in order to provide free guided virtual tours to all Irish secondary schools. DFAT organised a visit from the OSCE Personal Representative of the Chairperson-in-Office for combatting antisemitism Rabbi Andrew Baker. DFAT officials attended and presented at an IHRA plenary in Jerusalem and will attend the upcoming IHRA plenary in Buenos Aires in June. The implementation of the IHRA Working Definition of antisemitism is primarily a matter for the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration. |
|
Support artists to access international opportunities through increased funding for Culture Ireland and support for our embassies to promote more bilateral exchanges. |
Ireland’s specialist cultural attaché programme expanded during 2025, with new appointments at Embassies in India, China and South East Asia. Recruitment processes are live for new posts in Southern Africa and in Middle East & North Africa, with appointments anticipated in the coming months. |
|
250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, highlighting Ireland’s connection to that story, both north and south. |
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade developed a programme of events and initiatives to mark the anniversary and highlight the contribution of Irish men and women to the development of the United States. This was a common theme across visits by the Taoiseach and Government ministers to eleven U.S. states for St Patrick’s Day. It is also reflected in a programme of event organised by Missions across the U.S. in 2026, with support from a dedicated fund at HQ.
Other initiatives include a travelling exhibition in conjunction with EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum and, in tandem with the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, a project with the Irish Traditional Music Archive to develop a digital cultural atlas of Irish America.
Highlighting the distinct contribution of Ulster-Scots to this story has been a key pillar of the programme. In March 2026, both the Government of Ireland and the Northern Ireland Executive were represented at ministerial level at an academic event on the Ulster-Scots contribution to America250, held at Georgia Southern University and organised by Ireland’s Consulate General in Atlanta. |
|
Promote an all-island approach to hosting major international sporting events, building on the Major International Events policy, including supporting the hosting of the 2027 Ryder Cup, Euro 2028, the T20 Cricket World Cup 2030, the Open Championships and bidding for major competitions. |
The continuation of a structured and strategic approach to securing the hosting of major sporting events that can deliver all-island benefits, including co-hosting opportunities, is one of the actions in the International Sports Diplomacy Strategy launched in February 2026. This action is informed by the Major International Sports Events Policy and Strategy Framework 2024. Work is also ongoing to establish a formal structure across Government for the coordination of major sporting events. |
|
Maintain and continue to grow the Global Ireland Media Challenge Fund to build capacity of Irish media outlets to undertake quality reporting on international geopolitical events. |
The latest application window for the Global Ireland Media Challenge Fund (GIMCF) was opened in January 2025. Six additional media organisations were awarded funding for the 2025-2026 period, bringing to eight the total number of media organisations currently in receipt of GIMCF funding |
|
Support the development of the Savings and Investment Union, seeking opportunities to improve competition in key financial sectors and to support the green and digital transitions. |
Ireland proactively and collaboratively engaged in the negotiations for an EU-wide 2040 climate target. Ireland agreed to a highly ambitious target to reduce emissions by 90% by 2040, based on 1990 levels, while securing stronger language on food security, forestry and land use, renewable energy, and a just transition – including energy affordability. Ireland strongly supported the ambitious digital simplification package and has worked to develop a strong, coherent and stable digital regulatory framework. |
|
Support and implement the European Green Deal, unlocking more of Europe’s renewable energy potential through enhanced EU co-operation and improved European grid connectivity. |
Ireland accelerated the green energy transition by advancing policies which enhanced affordability for businesses and households while enabling faster adoption of renewables and robust energy security, including through engagement on the suite of measures proposed by the Commission in AccelerateEU in response to the energy shock precipitated by the recent conflict in the Middle East. Ireland prioritised an EU-wide approach to deployment and investment in grid infrastructure in order to enhance our competitiveness and has engaged on the European Grids Package published on 16 December 2025. Projects such as the Celtic Interconnector between Ireland and France, which will be a key first step towards expanding and diversifying interconnections, progressed. |
|
Ensure there is an ambitious new European Budget settlement, protecting existing EU programmes and taking action on strategic priorities. |
The proposal for the 2028 – 2034 Multiannual Financial Framework was published in July and September 2025. Since then, DFAT and the Department of Finance, as co-leads on Ireland’s position, have coordinated across Government to ensure Irish priorities and ambitions are well communicated and advanced. As we approach Ireland’s Presidency of the EU, Ireland will seek to advance workable compromises among Member States on the future EU budget. |
|
Prioritise economic competitiveness in the EU and continue to promote international trade, as it is vital to the Irish economy. |
Ireland is working to implement the files of the Competitive Compass outlined by the Commission. Ireland has also worked to take forward the implementation of the EU Single Market Strategy. Moreover, Ireland is advocating that the use of a “European Preference” should only take place in a targeted, evidence based manner and there should be no blanket application across our industrial policy toolkit. Ireland is prioritising an open economy with free and fair competition and the deepening of the Single Market, which should remain the EU’s main approach to enhancing competitiveness. Ireland is also advocating for Strengthening EU-US cooperation and are expressing caution regarding approaches that could disrupt transatlantic investment flows or global value chains. With the publication of the One Europe, One Market Roadmap in April, setting out ambitious timelines for the adoption of 42 competitiveness proposals by the end of 2027, Ireland will focus on making progress on the relevant targets. |
|
Work to strengthen the application and monitoring of the rule of law across the EU, ensuring the non-partisan application of the Rule of Law mechanism, and ensure that all citizens in all members states feel equally protected from those who threaten our values, including their own governments. |
Ireland, alongside a majority of Member States, intervened in support of the European Commission’s infringement procedure against Hungary in relation to the “National Sovereignty Protection” law passed in December 2023. On 12 February 2026, the Advocate General of the Court of Justice of the EU delivered her Opinion that Hungary’s legislation had infringed EU law. On 21 April 2026, the Court of Justice of the EU ruled that, on Case C-769/22 | Commission v Hungary (Values of the European Union), by adopting a law which stigmatises and marginalises LGBTI+ persons, Hungary has acted in breach of EU law. This landmark case, in which Ireland intervened in support of the Commission, is the first where the Court finds an infringement of Article 2 TEU, which lists the values on which the Union is founded and which are common to all the Member States. DFAT’s European Enlargement and Fundamental Values Fund (EEFV) has provided €999,200 in 2025 in financial assistance to civil society groups and other bodies in EU Member States, including countries where the rule of law is under pressure. |
|
Support sanctions against countries seeking to undermine European democracy. |
Ireland implements EU and UN sanctions; this commitment is in progress. |
|
Reduce where possible the regulatory burden simplifying EU rules for the SME and Farming sectors. |
DFAT has coordinated work across Government on the EU’s simplification agenda to help reduce the regulatory burden, notably for SMEs and farming communities. Ireland has worked with EU partners to make progress on the implementation of the ten Omnibus simplification packages proposed by the Commission, which the Commission estimates will lead to administrative savings across the EU of €11 billion per year. |
|
Deliver on plans to increase the number of Irish people applying for positions in the institutions of the European Union, including a communications campaign targeted at school leavers and graduates highlighting the opportunities available, and a partnership with third level providers to do the same. |
DFAT continued to implement the “A Career for EU strategy” to increase Irish representation in EU institutions. Physical outreach at second and third-level careers fairs promoted EU careers to school leavers and graduates, while targeted social media campaigns encouraged professional applicants. Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne, TD, participated in local radio interviews. The dedicated website ireland.ie/en/eu-jobs received thousands of visits. Extensive training and supports continued for Irish candidates. |
|
Develop and promote projects which build links and understanding with other EU capitals and regions in the fields of culture, education, research and innovation. |
In 2025, Ireland promoted Irish culture across EU Member States through a €250,000 fund allocated to Irish Embassies and Consulates throughout Europe to facilitate cultural and educational initiatives that showcase Irish arts and identity. |
|
Stand by the EU’s accession promises, promoting a positive enlargement strategy for Ukraine, the Western Balkans, Moldova and Georgia. |
Ireland continued to promote and support progressing EU enlargement policy and individual candidacies on a merit-basis. In advance of our EU Presidency, in September 2025, Ireland opened embassies in three candidate countries, in Bosnia Herzegovina, Moldova and Serbia. Over the last year, the Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence visited Albania, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Ukraine and reaffirmed Ireland’s strong support for their respective EU accession paths. Over the past months, and in the months ahead, Ireland has hosted and will continue to host a number of ministerial visits from candidate and potential candidate countries. Ireland has also supported several projects to support candidate and potential candidate countries’ EU accession processes. |
|
Promote closer co-operation with candidate countries, assisting these nations to align with EU standards. |
A three year 'Ireland for EU Enlargement Programme', funded through EU and Trade Policy Divisions' EU Enlargement and Fundamental Values fund, is being delivered by the Institute of Public Administration together with the Podgorica-based Western Balkans Regional School of Public Administration (ReSPA) to support capacity building in candidate countries focusing on the Rule of Law, digitalisation and economic transformations. In November, 48 senior officials from candidate countries travelled to Dublin for further classes and engagements to build capacity and awareness of EU standards and policies. In 2026, the “Ireland for EU Enlargement Programme” has been extended to include all six Western Balkan countries as well as Ukraine and Moldova. In the first week of June, 55 senior officials will travel to Dublin to mark the launch of the second year of the programme. Ireland has also made a contribution of €1.5 million towards the “Ukraine2EU”, a programme supporting Ukraine’s EU accession path. |
|
Introduce a new John Hume Fund in honour of one of Ireland’s greatest ever patriots and only member of the European Parliament to win a Nobel Prize. This is to be awarded annually by that Parliament to a person or organisation who promotes reconciliation and shared prosperity in Europe. |
EU and Trade Policy Division within DFAT established a new European Parliament Unit last year. The purpose of this unit is to maximise opportunities for effective Irish engagement with the European Parliament, both as a key partner in our ongoing work and in particular with a view to an effective Irish Presidency in 2026. As part of this work, the unit has engaged in outreach around the establishment of a John Hume Fund, conducting research on existing awards granted by the European Parliament and gathering views from relevant interlocutors, with a view to recommending a way forward on the establishment of a new fund in cooperation with the European Parliament. |
|
Publish plans for our upcoming Presidency to deliver against strategic priorities for Europe and Ireland. |
The priorities and policy programme for Ireland’s EU Presidency are now being finalised; in line with convention, the programme will be published in June 2026. |
|
Host an informal meeting of the European Council and a meeting of the European Political Community in Ireland during the Presidency, as well as a programme of between 16 and 20 informal Council meetings at Ministerial level. |
Extensive planning work has been carried out to prepare for the programme of meetings to be hosted across Ireland during our EU Presidency. These will include a summit of the European Political Community, an informal meeting of the European Council and 22 informal Ministerial meetings. Overall, we expect to host more than 250 Presidency events here. DFAT has chaired monthly Inter-Departmental meetings on Operational Presidency Planning to support delivery of the Presidency meeting programme in Ireland. |
|
Seek to bring some of the high-level meetings of our Presidency to cities and counties across Ireland, ensuring the entire country benefits from the profile the Presidency brings. |
Six informal Ministerial meetings (involving EU Ministers responsible for Employment and Social Affairs, Fisheries, Defence, Foreign Affairs, Telecommunications and Equality) will be hosted in regional locations, in Counties Mayo, Cork, Wicklow, Limerick and Kerry. A range of other conferences, official-level meetings and other events will take place in regional locations across Ireland. |
|
Provide for a sustainability policy for the Presidency. |
A sustainability policy for Ireland’s EU Presidency has been developed and is being implemented. |
|
Continue to work with partners in the region to advocate for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the return of all hostages and a surge of humanitarian aid. We will also work with partners to help rebuild Gaza as soon as practicable. |
Ireland remains committed to working with key partners to end the conflict in Gaza, and to advancing a sustainable peace plan. Ending the conflict and addressing the huge challenges facing Palestinians in Gaza has implications for regional security and stability. Ireland continues to have grave concerns about the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. Ireland continues to call for Israel to immediately remove restrictions on aid access and facilitate essential supplies and services to reach people across the Gaza Strip. On 13 January, Minister McEntee announced that Ireland will provide €42 million in assistance to the people of Palestine in 2026, including €20 million in core funding to support the work of UNRWA in providing vital services to Palestinian refugees in Gaza and the West Bank, and across the region. Ireland has provided over €122 million in support to the people of Palestine since January 2023. This includes €68 million to UNRWA of which €10 million was provided in January 2026. |
|
Seek to grow the international coalition of countries supporting a two-state solution through recognition of the State of Palestine and continue to advocate for internationally sponsored political negotiations on achieving a peaceful and secure Israel and Palestine. |
Ireland stands ready to play our part in working towards a sustainable peace between Israel and Palestine through the implementation of the two-State solution. Ireland was active in preparing the UN High-level Conference on the Two-State Solution held in New York from 28 - 30 July. The outcome document from the meeting – the New York Declaration – has been endorsed by 142 countries. The Taoiseach attended the re-convened Conference during UN High Level Week in late September 2025. We welcome that the actions in the New York Declaration have influenced the drafting of the US Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict. Ireland is an active member of the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, and hosted a meeting of the Global Alliance in January 2026. The Dublin event focused on sharing lessons from Ireland’s own experience of peacebuilding in Northern Ireland and how dialogue, inclusion and strong institutions can help turn conflict into lasting peace. |
|
Continue to seek the application of International Law and justice to all sides in the current conflict through the international court system. |
Ireland has continued to seek the application of International Law and justice to all sides in the current conflict through the international court system by participation in relevant International Court of Justice proceedings, and support to the International Criminal Court. |
|
Advocate for a meaningful interpretation of Israel’s human rights obligations under the EU-Israel association agreement at European Commission level and continue to advocate a review of the EU Trade Agreement. |
Ireland has consistently called for the EU to take concrete action in response to egregious Israeli breaches of human rights and democratic principles. Ireland welcomed proposals from the European Commission in September 2025 to suspend the core trade-related provisions of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. In advance of the April 2026 Foreign Affairs Council, the Foreign Ministers of Ireland, Spain and Slovenia 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. At the May 2026 Foreign Affairs Council, Ireland also called on EU partners to re-consider the proposal put forward by the President of the Commission to suspend the trade-related provisions of the Association Agreement, or at least to agree to a complete prohibition on trade with Israeli settlements, on the basis of EU Common Commercial Policy. In parallel, Ireland continues to press for a ban on trade with settlements at the EU level in light of the 2024 ICJ Advisory Opinion and has called for a proposal from the Commission in this regard. The Taoiseach also wrote to European Council President Costa on 20 May, reiterating Ireland’s position on EU trade with Israel and requesting an urgent discussion of these issues among EU leaders at the next meeting of the European Council on 18-19 June. |
|
Progress legislation prohibiting goods from Occupied Palestinian Territories following the July 2024 International Court of Justice Advisory Opinion. |
The Government approved the text of the Israeli Settlements (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026 on 26 May 2026. The Bill fulfils the commitment set out in the Programme for Government to progress legislation to prohibit the import of goods from Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory. Once the Bill is enacted and commenced, the importation of goods originating in the settlements into Ireland will be an offence under section 14 of the Customs Act 2015. The Government will seek to enact the Bill before the summer recess. |
|
Continue to oppose and condemn Hamas and other groups which bring terror and destruction to their own people and others. |
Ireland has consistently condemned Hamas and stated that the PA is the only credible and legitimate interlocutor on the Palestinian side and must be fully engaged. |
|
Support UNRWA and advocate within Europe for increased support. |
The Government maintained the increased annual level of Irish core funding to UNRWA at €20 million and has taken a lead in the EU in advocating for support for the Agency by the Commission and Member States. This support to UNRWA was announced on 13 January by Minister McEntee within the 2026 €42 million package for the people of Palestine. Ireland’s first tranche of €10 million was paid to UNRWA in 2026. The Government has continued to encourage UN Member States to increase funding to UNRWA, including at the EU, which confirmed its €82 million package for UNRWA on 16 April. |
|
Work with partners in the EU to introduce further sanctions against illegal settler activity in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. |
Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory are illegal under international law. This is the longstanding position of the European Union. Instances of settler violence have intensified in recent months. It is vital that the perpetrators of these crimes are held to account. Ireland has strongly supported the sanctions adopted by the EU against both individuals and entities involved in settler violence. At the May 2026 Foreign Affairs Council, Foreign Ministers finally reached agreement on the Commission proposal to sanction extremist Israeli settlers and entities, as well as leading Hamas figures. |
|
Continue to unequivocally support Ukraine, affirming that Russia cannot win this war and supporting Ukrainian resistance through our contribution to the European Peace Facility and the Ukraine Facility. |
The Government consistently provided strong political, humanitarian, economic and non-lethal military support. We used our position and voice at all levels to support Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and right to live in peace and conveyed this directly to President Zelenskyy during his visit to Ireland in December 2025. The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade visited Ukraine in March 2026. Ireland strongly supported the provision of an EU loan of €90 billion to Ukraine for the period 2026-2027. As the ability to channel non-lethal military support through the EPF became limited in 2025, the Government provided non-lethal military support to Ukraine bilaterally, allocating €200 million in 2025 outside the EPF. We supported peace efforts as part of the EU and through our membership of the Coalition of the Willing. |
|
Work to enhance existing sanctions against Russia by identifying and closing loopholes to ensure maximum effectiveness. |
Over the last 12 months, Ireland has strongly supported the 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th packages of sanctions against Russia. Ireland has also supported further sanctions relating to the Shadow Fleet and against sanctions circumvention. Ireland is preparing to make an important contribution towards EU sanctions policy during the EU Presidency in the second half of 2026. |
|
Strongly advocate for Ukrainian membership of the European Union, facilitating their integration into the European community. |
Ireland has continued to strongly advocate for Ukrainian membership of the EU and for the opening of accession negotiations with Ukraine. Ireland reaffirmed support for Ukraine's EU accession during President Zelenskyy's visit in December 2025 and the visit to Ukraine by Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade in March 2026. Ireland supported €1.5 million in funding for the Ukraine2EU initiative. This initiative is providing support to Ukraine in coordinating and monitoring its accession process and ensuring harmonization of Ukrainian legislation with EU Law. |
|
Continue to fund rebuilding infrastructure in Ukraine, including school rebuilding and water infrastructure programmes. |
In 2025, Ireland provided €35.7 million in humanitarian assistance and stabilisation supports to Ukraine and neighbouring countries, including supports to shelter, water, sanitation, energy and essential health infrastructure through supporting underground maternal and perinatal units. In February 2026, a further contribution of €25 million was made to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund to assist with the repair and restoration of critical energy infrastructure in Ukraine. In April, a further package of €40.3 million in humanitarian assistance and stabilisation supports was announced which will be provided in the current year. Ireland is working in cooperation with Lithuania to support the building of school shelters in Ukraine, and since November 2025 has also been a member of the Civil Protection Shelter Coalition which supports the provision of civil protection shelters in Ukraine. |
|
Continue to increase Official Development Assistance annually, working towards the UN target of 0.7% of Gross National Income. |
The allocation for Irish Aid was increased to €810.3 million for 2025 and, following Budget 2026, the allocation for 2026 will rise to €866.4 million. These are the highest levels ever in the 52-year history of the development programme. Ireland's total ODA for 2025 is reported as €1.86 billion, or 0.42% of GNP. |
|
Deliver on Ireland’s International Climate Finance Roadmap to address climate challenges and prioritise funding for adaptation efforts in countries most vulnerable to climate change, particularly Small Island Developing States. |
Implementation of Roadmap actions and priorities continued. An external review of the Roadmap was completed in late 2025, reflecting measurable progress. The Review and accompanying Management Response was published in April. |
|
Recommit Ireland to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. |
Ireland continued to take a lead role in commitment to the SDGs. The allocation agreed for 2026 for the international development assistance programme under DFAT, Irish Aid, stands at €866.4 million, the highest ever level. The Taoiseach participated in the ‘SDG Moment’ during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2025. The Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment will reiterate Ireland's commitment to the SDGs at the United Nations High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development in July 2026. |
|
Support the new Fund for Loss and Damage, prioritising the world’s most vulnerable countries. |
Ireland has contributed €25 million to the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage following our pledge at COP28 in 2023. Ireland shares a seat on the Board with the European Commission. |
|
Work with international partners to keep attention on the plight of women and girls in Afghanistan. |
DFAT has continued to raise the plight of women and girls in Afghanistan at all appropriate opportunities in international fora. DFAT also advocated strongly for and ensured Ireland played a lead role in the establishment of an Independent Accountability Mechanism at UN HRC60 in October 2025. For the 2025-2026 term, Ireland joined the Advisory Board of the Afghanistan Humanitarian Fund (AHF), a UN country-based pooled fund which directs humanitarian funding in Afghanistan, to where needs are greatest. In 2025, Ireland provided €4.97 million in humanitarian funding to support needs in Afghanistan and amongst Afghan refugees in neighbouring states, and emergency response following the August 2025 Kunar earthquake. So far in 2026, Ireland has provided €3 million to the Afghanistan Humanitarian Fund and another €1.5 million to support the UNHCR Afghanistan Situation Response including support to Afghan refugees in Iran and Pakistan. An additional €400,000 has been budgeted to support the response in Afghanistan of Concern Worldwide. |
|
Significantly increase the proportion of ODA that is channelled into the education of young people in developing countries, particularly the education of girls. |
DFAT is working with existing and potential partners to identify impactful education programming opportunities that align with Ireland’s policy for international development, A Better World. |
|
Advocate for greater attention on the conflict in Sudan. |
Ireland continues to work to ensure that Sudan remains high on the international agenda through various multilateral fora, including the EU Foreign Affairs Council, and the UN General Assembly and Human Rights Council. Ireland provided €14.3 million in humanitarian assistance in 2025 to support communities in Sudan and those displaced in neighbouring countries. Ireland will significantly increase our assistance in response to the Sudan conflict to at least €21 million this year. This funding will be needs based and flexible, with a focus on reaching those furthest behind. |
|
Develop a strategy to map, support, and tell the story of Irish investment overseas. |
DFAT supported the development of projects mapping Ireland’s economic and trade relationship with both Canada and the United States, which included Ireland's investment in those markets. A similar project is underway on the Ireland-Mexico economic relationship and a number of other projects are in the pipeline. |
|
Continue to implement and enhance whole-of-government strategies covering Latin America, Asia-Pacific, including China, US & Canada and Africa. |
The whole-of-government strategies developed under Global Ireland 2025 have continued to be implemented. Work to develop successor strategies will continue throughout 2026, including in the context of the development of a new framework Global Ireland 2040 strategy. |
|
Continue to develop Ireland’s presence around the world, with an expansion of the successful Ireland House concept; where all of our agencies are in one location, maximising impact in host countries and value for Irish taxpayers at home. |
New Ireland Houses were developed and opened in Tokyo and Chicago in 2025, bringing the total number of Ireland Houses to 20 by mid-2025. The Embassy of Ireland, Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland share the new Ireland House in Tokyo, and the Consulate General of Ireland and IDA Ireland share the new Ireland House in Chicago. New Ireland Houses are under development or planned in five other locations; in London, Lyon, Toronto, Milan and Madrid, with Lyon expected to be completed in the coming weeks, and both London and Toronto expected to be completed by the end of 2027. This will bring the total number of Ireland Houses to 24 by 2027, as Madrid is an existing Ireland House with plans in train to move to a new premises. |
|
Develop a new Diaspora Strategy to ensure that the new generation and profile of emigrants are aware of and can access support overseas and develop our international diaspora networks using online and data-based initiatives. |
Following extensive consultations with the Irish diaspora, involving 27 formal in person consultations in 17 countries. Minister of State Richmond launched the government’s Diaspora Strategy 2026-2030 at the Global Irish Civic Forum in April. Development of the Action Plan for the new Strategy is underway. |
|
Deliver an ambitious digital strategy that works towards digital passports for those who want to avail of them in the future, as part of better digital public services. |
Officials have engaged with a number of issuing authorities, with some already having run pilot programmes. Building on these insights, the Passport Service is commencing a limited DTC pilot with an EU partner that will inform next steps. |
|
Strengthen our political, cultural, economic and trade relationship with the US at all levels, recognising the unique significance of the transatlantic relationship between us. |
This is a priority for the Department, including its embassy and consulates across the U.S. In 2025, the Department supported over 68 high level visits to and from the U.S. We continue to support and deliver a high frequency of engagements inward and outward in 2026. These visits reinforce relationships and U.S. understanding of Irish positions and objectives. Work is underway to prepare a new strategy for Irish engagement with the United States. For St Patrick’s Day 2026, in addition to the Taoiseach’s visit to Washington, seven other Government Ministers and the Ceann Comhairle undertook programmes across the U.S. In total, they visited 14 cities in 11 States, meeting with 2 Governors, 3 Lt. Governors, and 12 Mayors (including from 6 of the 12 largest U.S. cities by population). |
|
Enhance our diplomatic presence across the US, particularly in a number of southern states to ensure we are best placed to influence, anticipate and respond to any planned changes by the new US Administration. |
Budget 2026 included an allocation to reinforce our U.S. engagement. The coming months will see a 14% increase in the number of Irish diplomats posted to the U.S.
In September 2025, the Tánaiste opened Ireland’s new Embassy building on Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington D.C. The Government has also deepened its sectoral expertise in the U.S. with the presence of two Talent and Innovation Attachés in Boston and San Francisco. Ireland's Honorary Consul Network has also been expanded. |
|
Build on emerging and improving connections with state legislatures across the US. |
There has been significant Government and diplomatic engagement with U.S state legislators, in Ireland and through our U.S. network. |
|
Create more pathways for companies to invest in the USA as Ireland is already amongst the highest inward investors in the USA. |
Our diplomatic network works closely with Irish companies and State Agencies to promote opportunities for expansion in the U.S. It also communicates Irish investment into the U.S. and highlights the mutually beneficial nature of the economic relationship. This was a significant focus of St Patrick’s Day messaging across the U.S. in 2026. The diplomatic network was expanded with four additional diplomatic officer posts approved for our USA Consulate General network to focus on trade and investment support. In May 2026, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD, led Ireland’s largest-ever company delegation to the SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington D.C. More than 50 Irish firms attended the event. |
|
Work with our European partners to ensure a coordinated approach to the Transatlantic Relationship and boost intra-EU collaboration on competitiveness and productivity projects of common interest. |
At EU level, Ireland is advocating for strengthening EU-US cooperation and is expressing caution regarding approaches that could disrupt transatlantic investment flows or global value chains. |
|
Develop a specific strategy to grow the Irish Diaspora in the US. |
Following extensive consultations with the Irish diaspora, including five in-person meetings in the U.S., Minister of State Richmond launched the government’s Diaspora Strategy 2026-2030 at the Global Irish Civic Forum in April. Development of the Action Plan for the new Strategy is underway. The Minister launched the strategy in the U.S. during a visit to New York in May. The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade launched the Government’s new “Shared Home Place: Diaspora Voices” initiative, at a St. Patrick’s Day event at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston. |
|
Advocate with the US Administration and Capitol Hill to advance the case of undocumented Irish citizens in the US. |
The Department and mission network continue to advocate on behalf of our undocumented citizens in the U.S. In 2025, the Government provided over €4.5 million to Irish organisations in the United States, including those organisations and Irish centres that provide trusted information, legal resources and support to those seeking to regularise their immigration status. |
|
Work with victims’ groups, political parties and the British Government to develop a fit-for-purpose mechanism to seek truth and justice for victims and their families. |
The Tánaiste and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland published The Legacy of the Troubles: A Joint Framework, a comprehensive package designed to provide truth, accountability and, where possible, justice for victims and families who have lost loved ones. This is a significant development, representing progress on an issue that has eluded agreement for decades. The focus now moves to implementation in both jurisdictions. |
|
Support the PEACEPLUS and Interreg programmes to assist communities across the island and commence planning for successor programme. |
Programme rollout progressed well, with 94% of the €1.1 billion funding available already allocated to projects. On 6 March 2025, following the British/Irish Summit, the Taoiseach and the UK Prime Minister issued a Joint Statement outlining their shared commitment to the successful delivery of the 2021-2027 PEACE PLUS programme and their agreement, in principle, to a successor programme.
Negotiations for 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework, which will provide the framework for the next programme, are ongoing following the publication of Commission proposals in July 2025. |
|
Increase Irish Government investment in community-level reconciliation through the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Reconciliation Fund. |
The Reconciliation Fund in DFAT will stand at over €8 million in 2026 – an increase of €1 million from 2025. The closing date for annual and multiannual funding applications was 16 April. |
|
Advocate for the re-establishment and full operation of a Northern Ireland Civic Forum as envisaged in the Good Friday Agreement. |
In July 2025, First Minister O'Neill and deputy First Minister Little-Pengelly forwarded a written statement to Assembly members, outlining their intention to reconstitute the Civic Forum on a compact, flexible and agile basis that complements the Executive's processes of stakeholder engagement in policy formulation. |
|
Enhance Irish-British relations, recognising that the peace process thrives when both governments act as full partners and co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement. |
Enhanced Government contact was delivered with the second annual UK-Ireland Summit held in Cork in March 2026 and further joint cooperation activities advanced under the Joint Statement 2030. There has been continued engagement between the two Governments on legacy that resulted in the Joint Framework on Legacy agreed between the two governments in 2025. Official and political engagement has also continued via the British Irish Council, including high-level attendance at the twice annual BIC Summit. |
|
Establish new arrangements to support and strengthen interaction between the two Governments, encouraging co-operation across all aspects of our partnership, including the North-South bodies. |
Implementation of the Ireland-UK Joint Statement 2030 is well underway: the first annual Ireland-UK Youth Forum was held in Dublin in January 2026; the second annual UK-Ireland Summit was held in Cork in March 2026; the UK and Ireland announced €12m in funding for 12 cultural initiatives in March; progress has been made on the North-South Interconnector; among other advances. The thirty-first plenary meeting of the North South Ministerial Council (NSMC) took place in Armagh on 8 May. The Taoiseach led the Irish Government delegation alongside a number of other Government Ministers. Issues discussed included business and trade, tackling gender-based violence, infrastructure and investment cooperation, and emergency planning and preparedness. The Taoiseach provided an update on planning for Ireland’s EU Presidency in his opening remarks. The Fifteenth Institutional Meeting of the NSMC was held on 8 May with Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, the FM and dFM. Ministers noted the pivotal role which Ireland will play within the EU from 1 July as President of the Council of the European Union. Ministers also noted the progress being made in key areas under the Strategic Partnership between the UK and the EU, and that cooperation between both jurisdictions will continue in the context of the evolving nature of UK-EU relations. |
|
Hold annual summits between the two Heads of Government, providing a platform to review joint efforts and deepen co-operation. |
The second annual UK-Ireland Summit was held in March 2026 in Cork, with significant high-level political participation on both sides. |
|
Continue to work with British counterparts to deliver the successful operation of the Common Travel Area. |
The first CTA Plenary of 2026 was held in Dublin in January, with the UK set to host a second meeting this year. Regular dialogue has been maintained at political and official level with UK counterparts on developments of potential relevance to the CTA and the entry into force of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Scheme. |
|
Co-operate on a North – South and East – West basis in the area of renewable energy with a view to establishing joint objectives and maximising collaboration. |
There was a renewed commitment and focus on energy cooperation with Scotland and Wales in the new framework agreements for cooperation with each nation. Both agreements were launched in 2025 and run until 2030. |
191. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the steps being taken to ensure that the expansion of the electricity grid keeps pace with increased demand from housing development and renewable energy projects in rural Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40856/26]
View answerPlanning, developing, safely operating and maintaining the electricity system are functions which are assigned to the respective Distribution and Transmission System Operators and for which they are accountable to the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU). EirGrid, as Transmission System Operator, has responsibility for the development of the Transmission Network and ESB Networks, as Distribution System Operator, has responsibility for the development of the Distribution Network.
As set out in the Programme for Government ensuring that the necessary investment is made in the electricity grid is a priority for Government.
The CRU Price Review 6 (PR6) decision will see up to €18.9 billion invested in our electricity system over the coming 5 years, the largest ever electricity grid investment. This is a landmark investment to upgrade Ireland’s existing electricity infrastructure and deliver critical new infrastructure to meet future demand.
PR6 will unlock additional electricity capacity through an ambitious transmission and distribution capital programme, including 29 transmission priority projects and 31 distribution priority projects.
Government has established numerous taskforces focused on accelerating delivery of the electricity grid and generation assets. Cross Government work is ongoing to accelerate critical infrastructure including implementation of the Accelerating Infrastructure Action Plan and the 30, time bound, measures to remove barriers to infrastructure delivery.
ESB Networks, EirGrid and CRU can be contacted directly in relation to specific queries at oireachtas@esb.ie, oireachtas@eirgrid.com and oireachtas@cru.ie.
192. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to consider increasing the grant for solar panels given their increasing popularity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40896/26]
View answerThe Government approved the high-level design for the Micro-Generation Support Scheme (MSS) on 21 December 2021 as a means of supporting 380MW of new micro-generation capacity by 2030 under the Climate Action Plan.Since 2018, the MSS has supported installation of solar PV for over 112,000 homes.
Domestic applicants can apply to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland for a grant towards the cost of installing solar PV panels. In 2022 and 2023, the?maximum grant amount of €2,400 was available. In 2024, the maximum grant was reduced to €2,100 and in 2025 to €1,800 and this has been maintained for 2026.
The Domestic Solar PV Grant Scheme has gone from strength to strength since its launch, with over 10,000 applicants supported in 2022, at a cost of over €24.4 million. ?2023 proved even more successful, with domestic solar installation further supported by the Government decision to apply a zero percent VAT rate for the ‘supply and installation of solar panels on domestic premises’ from 1 May 2023. The Domestic Solar PV Grant Scheme was?allocated?€29.4m in Budget 2023, which was projected to support 12,500 homes.??By the end of 2023, 22,214 homes had received grant support, to a total value €52.2m. In 2025, over 33,000 homes received grant support to the value of €65.3m.?Data for the first quarter of this year from SEAI shows?a very positive?upward trend, in both demand and output. As of April 2026, over 10,000 homes were supported and over 15,000 applications were received (a 72% increase year on year).
The National Energy Affordability Taskforce was formed to identify, assess and implement measures to enhance energy affordability for households. The Taskforce is now leading the response to the energy shock, and the immediate associated energy affordability challenge. This work includes examining how to support increased uptake of home energy efficiency upgrades and continued development of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland's retrofit schemes in line with commitments in the Programme for Government.
193. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the annual spend on grants for domestic solar installation over the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40977/26]
View answerThe Micro-generation Support Scheme (MSS) provides support to domestic and non-domestic applicants for renewable installations through grants provided by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).
The first phase of the MSS saw the introduction of the domestic solar PV grant on 16 February 2022. Domestic applicants can apply to the SEAI for a grant towards the cost of installing solar PV panels. In 2022 and 2023, the grants were €900/kWp up to 2kWp, and a further €300/kWp between 2kWp and 4kWp, for a total maximum grant amount of €2,400. In 2024, the maximum grant was reduced to €2,100 and in 2025 to €1,800. This has been maintained for 2026.
The Domestic Solar PV Grant Scheme has gone from strength to strength since its launch, with over 10,000 applicants supported in 2022, at a cost of over €24.4 million and a total installed capacity of 46.5MW. 2023 proved even more successful, with domestic solar installation further supported by the Government decision to apply a zero percent VAT rate for the ‘Supply and installation of solar panels on domestic premises’ from 1 May 2023. The Domestic Solar PV grant was allocated €29.4m in Budget 2023, which was projected to support an installed capacity of 55.6MW in 12,500 homes. By the end of 2023, 22,214 homes had received grant supports, to a total value €52.2m. In 2024, over 28,000 homes received grant supports to the value of €62.2m. In 2025, over 33,000 homes received grant supports to the value of €63m. This high level of demand, which is continuing into 2026, indicates that the scheme is working very well and that citizens are recognising the benefits of investing in Solar PV.
Support for the Domestic Solar PV Scheme has been set out in the Table attached.
|
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
2026 |
|
€7,353,320 |
€9,408,725 |
€24,431,240 |
52,155,150 |
€62,235,905 |
€63,060,760 |
€18,400,000 |
Notes: Data from 2020 till 2026 (End April)
194. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the annual spend on the non-domestic microgeneration grant over the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40979/26]
View answerThe primary scheme to support solar PV in the non-domestic sector is the Non-Domestic Microgeneration Scheme, administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland on behalf of my Department as part of an overall suite of business energy supports.
The scheme has been very successful in allowing businesses a rapid approval approach to reducing electricity costs and emissions. From 2023 to 2025, the scheme was provided an allocated budget of €42 million. As of the end of 2025, €23.3m of this budget has been expended and an additional €22.5 million of commitments has been made through grant offers. Therefore, to the end of 2025, the full allocation made to this scheme has either been spent or is committed to be spent.
A yearly breakdown of grant expenditure is provided in the attached table.
|
Year |
Total Grant Expenditure |
|
2023 |
€0.26 |
|
2024 |
€9.20 |
|
2025 |
€13.85 |
195. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if electricity credits will be included in Budget 2027; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39411/26]
View answerThe electricity and gas retail markets in Ireland operate within an EU regulatory regime wherein these markets are commercial and liberalised. The Commission for Regulation of Utilities ended its regulation of retail prices in the electricity market in 2011, and in the gas market in 2014. Price setting by electricity suppliers is, therefore, a commercial matter for the companies concerned.
Government is deeply aware and concerned about the pressures placed on households and businesses by high energy costs.
The Government has taken, and is taking, action to help households and businesses with the cost of fuel and energy. At this point, the €750 million intervention by the Irish Government is one of the more significant in the EU. This package was announced following significant engagement with industry representatives.
The Government took other actions in Budget 2026 to provide significant supports aimed at helping households with energy costs which included:
• an extension of the 9% VAT rate currently applied to gas and electricity, saving households up to €100 per year;
• enhanced social protection payments, including an increase to the Fuel Allowance rate to €38 per week and an expansion in the eligibility rules; and
• a record allocation of €640 million for the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland retrofit schemes.
It is important to note that the Department of Social Protection can also provide support through the Additional Needs Payment to help households meet expenses, including those who face difficulties with fuel bills.
A cross-Government National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) was established last June to identify and implement measures to enhance energy affordability for households and businesses. The first report of NEAT, published last November, helped to inform key aspects of Budget 2026. The NEAT is now preparing an Energy Affordability Action Plan that will be completed in Q3 of this year.
Electricity credits were always envisioned as a temporary, emergency measure. While necessary at the peak of the energy crisis, they are not fiscally sustainable nor do they reduce the drivers of cost in the energy sector.
There are no decisions made yet in respect of Budget 2027.
196. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the percentage of Ireland's electricity that is imported; and the cost to import this electricity, in each of the years 2020 to date, in tabular form. [41359/26]
View answerElectricity interconnection plays a central role in Ireland’s journey to decarbonisation. Ireland’s interconnection ambitions are well set out in the National Policy Statement on Electricity Interconnection published in 2023 (www.gov.ie/en/publication/3d96f-national-policy-statement-on-electricity-connection-2023/).
As a small island market, Ireland should benefit significantly from stronger links to a larger European electricity network. Interconnectors improve energy security, support renewable integration and enable electricity imports when domestic renewable output is low and exports when renewable generation is high. This will become increasingly important as Ireland expands its offshore renewable energy capacity.
Each proposed interconnector is assessed by the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities to help ensure net positive benefit from its operation. Higher interconnection capacity can deliver positive socio-economic benefits, reduce renewable curtailment, reduce national emissions, improve system flexibility, enable management of a variable renewable electricity system and allow for lower reliance on fossil-fuel backup generation.
In 2024, 14% of Ireland's gross supply of electricity came from net-imports across interconnectors, including 7.4% across the East-West interconnector from Britain, and 6.6% across the North-South interconnector from Northern Ireland. Electricity supply from the net import of electricity across interconnectors in 2024 was 1.8 TWh higher than in 2023.
The recently published SEAI Interim Energy Balance report for 2025 notes that Ireland imported 16.3% of its electricity supply in 2025 www.seai.ie/data-and-insights/seai-statistics/key-publications/national-energy-balance.
The CSO collates data around electricity imports and exports including around costs overall. Detailed monthly statistics are available on the Central Statistics Office website /data.cso.ie/table/TSM06.
However, it should be noted that the import of electricity to meet demand only occurs when the imported electricity is cheaper than the alternative generation source (usually gas-fired generation) that would be required to meet demand in that time period.
The increasing number of interconnectors between the continent, Britain and Ireland is enabling greater sharing of solar, onshore and offshore wind as weather patterns move across North-West Europe. This increasing interconnection is reducing emissions, prices and improving security of supply across all the interconnected countries.
197. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the costs incurred by his Department and bodies under its aegis from contracts awarded to communications and PR firms in each of the years 2020 to date, in tabular form; the name of the contractor, and a description of the work undertaken in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41360/26]
View answerMy Department has a dedicated communications and media relations function which manages public relations and media queries, alongside digital marketing, campaigns, events, and internal communications. My Department may occasionally engage external expertise in communications and PR where specialist or extensive support is required.
The information requested by the Deputy is outlined in the table below.
|
Company |
Year |
Description |
Cost (incl. VAT) |
|
OSD Digital Agency |
2020 |
Social media campaign advice |
€3,815.45 |
|
RPS Communications |
2020-2022 |
PR support to help with Tellus geophysical mapping survey - community outreach/information line |
€124,131.19 |
|
Kano Communications |
2022-2023 |
PR Support as part of Reduce Your Use Campaign |
€15,221.25 |
|
Communications Clinic |
2023 |
Delivery of media training to senior DECC officials |
€6,178.95 |
|
DHR Communications |
2023 |
Delivery of strategic communications training for senior officials |
€1,780 |
|
Healy Communications |
2025 |
Delivery of media training to senior DECC officials |
€1,815.48 |
|
Alice PR |
2025 |
PR support to Just Transition Commission |
€12,232.35 |
The information sought in the Question in relation to each agency or public body under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each of the State Bodies concerned and, as such, it is not information held by my Department. It is suggested that the Deputy contact the Bodies directly in relation to this matter. A list of these Bodies and their dedicated Oireachtas email addresses is attached.
|
List of Agencies under the aegis of Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment |
|
|
Bord na Mona |
Oireachtas@bnm.ie |
|
CRU |
oireachtas@cru.ie |
|
Eirgrid |
oireachtas@eirgrid.com |
|
EPA |
oireachtasqueries@epa.ie |
|
ESB |
Oireachtas@esb.ie |
|
IFI |
oireachtas@fisheriesireland.ie |
|
INPC |
enquiries@nora.ie |
|
Loughs Agency |
oireachtasqueries@loughs-agency.org |
|
MARA |
oireachtas@mara.gov.ie |
|
NORA |
enquiries@nora.ie |
|
SEAI |
oireachtas@seai.ie |
198. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the number of retired officials that were re-engaged by his Department on a consultancy basis in each of the years 2015 and to date in 2025; the reason for engaging them; the costs incurred in respect of their engagement; and if his Department requires consultants to declare conflicts of interest in advance of utilising their services. [41361/26]
View answerI can advise the Deputy that the number of retired officials that were re-engaged by my Department in each of the years 2015 and to date in 2026 is nil.
My Department, prior to signing a contract with a potential contractor, ensures within the provisions of the draft contract that any Conflict of Interest is disclosed.
199. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment his Department's expenditure on IT consultancy; to provide a breakdown of all IT consultants engaged by his Department; the dates of their engagement; the nature of their work; and the costs associated with their services, in each of the years 2015 to 2025. [41362/26]
View answerI wish to refer the Deputy to my answer to Question Number 232 on 31 March and to advise that the position remains unchanged. The table provide in that reply is attached for ease of reference.
|
The details requested by the Deputy are set out in the attached table. Company |
Dates |
Nature of Work |
Cost incl. VAT |
|
BH Consultancy |
May – Sept 2020 |
Cyber Security Assessment |
€4,840 |
|
Techcom |
Feb – Nov 2022 |
Provision of Audio-Visual Consultancy Services |
€5,362.88 |
|
Ernst and Young Business Consultants |
5th August 2022 – 5th August 2026 (contract end date) |
Advice, support and technical expertise in developing and enhancing a reporting system and other relevant governance structures on performance and delivery for priority programmes of work. |
2022 - No expenditure 2023 - €896,854.50 2024 - €33,184.17 2025 -€249,418.71 2026 – No expenditure to date |
|
Gartner Ireland Ltd |
1st Nov 2025 – 30th Oct 2028 (contract end date) |
ICT Consultancy Services |
2025 - €158,670 2026 – No expenditure to date |
200. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment when the climate action plan 2026 will be published; the reasons for the delay; if it will be published within Q2; and if he anticipates it will be published before the summer recess. [41364/26]
View answerThis Government is committed to delivering on Climate Action. Work remains ongoing across Government Departments to carry out climate action every day, and the rollout of retrofitting, renewable energy deployment, and more affordable electric vehicles continues at increasing pace. Ireland now has the lowest level of GHG emissions in 35 years which is notable given concurrent demographic and economic growth including an increase of approximately 1.5 million people, more than one million new homes and over one million extra vehicles on our roads.
This week, the Environmental Protection Agency has launched its latest Greenhouse Gas Emissions Projections. These projections show us that we are moving in the right direction and improving our performance, both WEM and WAM have improved on last year's figures, now at 13% and 25% respectively, and we are on track to come close to our first carbon budget.
We are making significant strides toward our target of 80% renewable energy by 2030, having now reached the major milestone of 8GW onshore renewable electricity generation. We are now prioritising the development of our offshore wind capacity. We have doubled our wind energy capacity over the past 10 years, just last month wind energy provided a record 50% of our electricity. The Government has also approved an unprecedented investment of €18.9 billion in Grid for the period 2026 – 2030 which is fundamental to the electrification of homes, businesses and transport. The 2025 ZEVI target for electrical vehicle sales of 195,000 was surpassed in October 2025 and there are now over 227,000 EVs on Irish roads as of end March 2026. I have also recently announced an unprecedented package of new and enhanced grants for homeowners across the country who are looking to benefit from home energy upgrades under the National Residential Retrofit Plan.
These ongoing efforts are supported by Climate Action Plan 2025, in tandem with its predecessor, Climate Action Plan 2024, which contain a comprehensive programme of climate action and provide a strong framework for continued delivery across all sectors, given that many of the measures and actions in these plans are multi-annual in nature and effect. Work remains ongoing across Government Departments to deliver on these commitments and carry out climate action efforts every day, supported by recently enhanced governance and delivery arrangements.
In line with the Programme for Government commitment, enhanced implementation governance structures to support accelerated climate action delivery have been put in place in 2025 to streamline structures and ensure that key strategic projects are supported. The latest projections show that what we are doing is working and improving our reductions all the time, but we do need to do more.
Work is currently underway on the next Climate Action Plan. The next plan will build on the measures in the previous plans and be a more targeted, implementation-focussed plan that provides a basis for our new governance structures to accelerate the delivery of our highest impact measures. In that regard, my Department is working towards bringing a draft of the new Climate Action Plan to Government later this year.
In formulating the next plan, Government must carefully consider a wide range of factors to ensure the approach is ambitious, feasible, and sustainable. It is vital that our climate policies and emissions reduction pathways deliver the best possible value for money while maximising the net benefits to society. We must protect the long-term competitiveness of the economy, maintain the State’s attractiveness for investment, and maximise employment opportunities while ensuring a just transition that supports communities right across the country.
201. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide a breakdown of the dates on which the Government received arrears data from the CRU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41365/26]
View answerRegulation of retail energy markets is solely a matter for the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) since the enactment of the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 and subsequent legislation.
The CRU publishes arrears and disconnections data in a monthly report. My Department receives these reports on the day of publication and then receives the underpinning data shortly thereafter. The dates in 2026 on which my Department received market monitoring data from the CRU is set out in the table attached.
The Deputy may wish to engage directly with the CRU in relation to the matters raised. The CRU provides a dedicated email address, oireachtas@cru.ie, for Oireachtas members which enables them to raise questions on general energy regulatory matters.
|
CRU Market Monitoring Data published |
Period that data refers to |
CRU Market Monitoring Monthly Updates Dates Received |
|
06/02/2026 |
November 2025 |
11/02/2026 |
|
24/02/2026 |
December 2025 |
06/03/2026 |
|
26/03/2026 |
January 2026 |
23/04/2026 |
|
28/04/2026 |
February 2026 |
05/05/2026 |
202. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the energy market reforms he is considering to reduce the cost of energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41366/26]
View answerRetail electricity prices are influenced by several factors including wholesale energy prices, system operation costs and supplier hedging. The latest data from Eurostat shows that, in nominal terms, Ireland ranked first for household electricity prices among European countries in the second half of 2025. When adjusting for purchasing power parity, Ireland has the fifth highest electricity prices among European countries.
In a report from last October, the International Energy Agency (IEA) observed that Irish retail prices had not adjusted at a comparable pace to the decline in wholesale prices, with the energy component of retail prices remaining up to three times that of wholesale prices. While the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) had found no evidence of market failure or windfall profits in the retail sector in its market monitoring role, the IEA findings underlined the importance of progressing the Programme for Government commitment to “commission an independent review into the speed and level of passthrough from wholesale prices to retail prices.”.
As Minister, I wrote to the CRU to request that they commence this independent review, building on the work of previous CRU investigations by reviewing the competitiveness of Irish retail energy markets, examining supplier costs, including hedging and pricing practices, and providing comparative price analysis with other EU Member States.
An interim report was published by the CRU on Monday 11 May, with input from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission on the competition and element of the energy market.
The CRU assessed key indicators of competition in the energy retail market including barriers to market entry/exit, market share, market concentration, switching and renegotiation rates. The analysis found that retail prices follow wholesale market prices but with a time lag, confirming that hedging can provide greater certainty on retail prices and protect customers from immediate price shocks. However, this does not guarantee lower prices for customers, as any changes in wholesale market prices will take time to feed through to customer bills.
The interim report has also found that competition in the Irish retail electricity and gas markets is working and is generating meaningful rivalry, particularly in the domestic segments and is performing reasonably well from a competition perspective.
This report will inform the work of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce, which was established by my Department last June. The role of the Taskforce is centred on examining costs drivers in the energy sector which ultimately affect bills, and developing policies to enhance affordability of energy for households and businesses.
203. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the reason Irish energy prices are so high compared to other EU states; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41367/26]
View answerEnergy affordability is a top priority for Government, as evidenced by the Programme for Government commitments in this regard and by the ongoing emphasis on key workstreams across my Department and in other Government Departments.
Retail prices are influenced by several factors including wholesale energy prices, system operation costs and supplier hedging. The latest data from Eurostat shows that, in nominal terms, Ireland ranked highest for electricity prices among European countries in the second half of 2025. When adjusting for purchasing power parity, in terms of energy affordability Ireland has the fifth highest electricity prices and eighth highest gas prices (below the EU average for gas) among European countries.
The Government is deeply aware and concerned about the pressures placed on households and businesses by high energy costs. We are taking action to help households and businesses with these costs. That is why, on 12 April, the Government agreed a €500 million package of fuel supports. This was in addition to the initial €250 million in targeted supports announced in March, which was already among the largest (per capita) intervention of any EU Member State. These packages were announced following significant engagement with industry representatives.
The initiatives were also in addition to the range of measures in Budget 2026 aimed at helping households with energy costs which included:
• an extension of the 9% VAT rate currently applied to gas and electricity, saving households up to €100 per year;
• enhanced social protection payments, including an increase to the Fuel Allowance rate to €38 per week and an expansion in the eligibility rules; and
• a record allocation of €640 million for the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland retrofit schemes.
The Government is also making crucial investments in renewable energy, in our electricity grid and in energy efficiency. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East underlines, once again, why we must accelerate the deployment of renewables across all sectors, and continue to invest in our grid as well as in retrofitting of homes and businesses across the country.
A range of protections are in place for customers experiencing difficulties in paying their bills. Anyone who is struggling with their bill is strongly encouraged to engage with their supplier. Suppliers will not disconnect customers who engage with them. It is important to note that the Department of Social Protection can also provide support through the Additional Needs Payment to help households meet expenses, including those who face difficulties with fuel bills.
As Minister, I have engaged with the four biggest energy retailers in recent months to ensure that hardship funds and focused measures are in place for any customers who find themselves in difficulty.
Also as Minister, I have recently written to retail electricity and gas suppliers, as well as fuel suppliers, to emphasise the importance of reducing the exposure for Irish consumers from the price shocks that global uncertainty can create.
A cross-Government National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) was established last June to identify and implement measures to enhance energy affordability for households and businesses. The first report of NEAT, published last November, helped to inform key aspects of Budget 2026. The NEAT is now working intensively to prepare an Energy Affordability Action Plan that will be completed in Q3 of this year.
As Minister, I will continue to engage with international and EU partners on an ongoing basis and voice the Government’s support for coordinated, EU-wide measures to address high energy prices.
204. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will provide a report on the progress made implementing the Programme for Government commitments within his remit and on the achievements since the formation of the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41380/26]
View answerThe attached table sets out the progress made on key Programme for Government (PfG) commitments under the remit of my Department since the formation of the Government. The key PfG commitments are grouped, as appropriate, to the relevant goals from my Department’s Statement of Strategy, Le Chéile 28, which was published in September 2025. These strategic goals are strongly aligned to key commitments in the Programme for Government 2025.
Significant progress has been made against key Programme for Government commitments under the remit of my Department, and we will continue our critical work to ensure the future successful delivery of commitments. A detailed summary this progress for 2025 will be provided through the DCEE Annual Report 2025 which is currently in development.
205. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the number of applications for home retrofit loans, broken down by county in each of the quarter since the schemes inception. [41399/26]
View answer206. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the number of home retrofit loans granted in each of the quarters since the schemes inception, broken down by county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41408/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 205 and 206 together.
The Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme (HEULS), which launched in April 2024, is intended to play a crucial role in helping homeowners invest in energy upgrades to make their homes warmer, healthier and more comfortable, with lower emissions and lower bills. It was developed by my Department, in conjunction with the Department of Finance, the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI), the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and the European Investment Bank Group.
The scheme is available nationwide and homeowners can borrow from €5,000 to €75,000 on an unsecured basis for a term of up to 10 years at significantly lower interest rates to those currently on the market. Rates start from as low as 2.99% with price varying depending on the finance provider. PTSB was the first lender to join in April 2024, with AIB and Bank of Ireland joining in June 2024. In 2025, the group of participating lenders was expanded to include Avant Money (in partnership with An Post) and seven credit unions from the Irish League of Credit Unions.
Loan applications are processed, validated and approved by the participating finance providers. Only loans that have been drawn down under the scheme are uploaded by the finance providers to the SBCI's reporting system.
At the end of Q1 2026, there were 1,135 loans drawn to a value of €56,071,897 since the scheme launched. The SBCI provide a regional breakdown of loan uptake on a quarterly basis. The Deputy may wish to note that as uptake figures in certain counties mean that it could be possible to identify individual homeowners, these figures have not been disclosed. Instead, cumulative uptake figures by region are provided in table 1 attached.
In line with the Programme for Government’s commitment to “Promote the €500 million Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme, offering low interest loans for home energy upgrades, from €5,000 to €75,000”, my Department continues to work closely with the SBCI, the SEAI and the participating finance providers to increase awareness of, and demand for, the scheme and drive additional uptake in 2026 and beyond.
The Deputy may wish to note that further information and quarterly reports related to the HEULS are available here: [www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/publications/home-energy-upgrade-loan-scheme/].
|
Region |
2024 (From launch 24th April to 31st December) |
Q1 2025 |
Q2 2025 |
Q3 2025 |
Q4 2025 |
Q1 2026 |
|
Border |
21 |
40 |
75 |
115 |
147 |
179 |
|
Dublin |
76 |
114 |
170 |
225 |
271 |
318 |
|
Mid-East |
34 |
55 |
76 |
94 |
119 |
136 |
|
Midlands |
12 |
13 |
18 |
26 |
30 |
41 |
|
Mid-West |
27 |
44 |
61 |
75 |
94 |
111 |
|
South-East |
19 |
27 |
39 |
51 |
67 |
79 |
|
South-West |
49 |
66 |
82 |
111 |
142 |
162 |
|
West |
30 |
40 |
59 |
79 |
91 |
109 |
|
Total |
268 |
399 |
580 |
776 |
961 |
1135 |
207. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Defence the measures being taken to improve recruitment and retention within the permanent Defence Force, particularly in regional areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40857/26]
View answerAs Minister for Defence, I am fully committed to supporting the Defence Forces to increase numbers and strengthen the Defence Forces. The Military Authorities have advised the strength of the Permanent Defence Force stood at 7,741 as at 30 April 2026, the latest date for which this figure is available.
Increases in application numbers and in the overall strength of the PDF over the last three years demonstrate that the key enabling measures which Government has introduced to support and drive Defence Forces recruitment and retention are yielding results. These measures include increases in the maximum ages of recruitment and retirement respectively, the extension of private secondary healthcare to all personnel and the application of the provisions of the Working Time Directive across the Defence Forces subject to certain exemptions. The Patrol Duty allowance payable to Naval Service personnel at sea has been doubled after ten days at sea in a calendar year while the Naval Service tax credit has been extended up to 2029. There continues to be significant progress on pay with all personnel benefiting from a pay award in February with a further increase due next week.
Underpinning these and other measures, I ensured that Budget 2026 provided a record allocation of €1.49 billion for the Defence Sector, an increase of €145 million on 2025. These funds include provision for the recruitment of a net 400 additional PDF members per annum.
The Defence Forces are making concerted efforts to boost recruitment and have put in place a range of initiatives that target potential candidates nationwide. The current marketing strategy for Defence Forces recruitment ‘Be More with the Irish Defence Forces’, demonstrates the opportunities and skills development a career in the Defence Forces can offer to potential candidates. A female advertising campaign was launched in February of this year, with a further RDF Recruitment campaign to launch in the autumn. The Defence Forces also collaborates with schools (including direct engagement with Career Guidance Counsellors), Colleges, Education and Training Boards and community organisations in all regions, in order to drive recruitment. Furthermore, transition year placements are available across several locations.
There are recruitment teams embedded in each of the Brigade and Service Headquarters in Cork, Dublin, The Curragh, Baldonnel and Haulbowline, but each of the units in the Defence Forces also engages in recruitment in its own assigned geographical area, covering all areas of the country. The recruitment teams engage and supports candidates throughout the process and enable them, where resources allow, to undertake elements of the recruitment process, including fitness tests and interviews, as close to their home locations as possible.
While recruitment and retention remains challenging, significant strides continue to be made on a number of fronts and the allocation of record levels of expenditure is illustrative of my commitment to increase recruitment and improve retention in the Defence Forces.
208. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether any component, subsystem, software module, sensor, avionics unit, or communications system integrated into equipment currently in operational use by the Defence Forces was manufactured, developed, or licensed by a company headquartered in Israel or by an Israeli subsidiary of a multinational company; if so, to provide a list of such components and the platforms in which they are installed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41302/26]
View answerThe Department does not comment on systems or equipment currently in use by the Defence Forces for operational reasons. Any operational deployment of such capabilities is a matter for the military authorities and is subject to Government policy and appropriate oversight arrangements.
The Department also has regard, as part of normal Defence procurement governance, to issues relating to reliance on foreign origin mission systems, avionics, software and specialist components. Ireland does not possess a large domestic defence industry and it is therefore necessary that Defence Forces equipment platforms are procured from international suppliers. In this context, procurement arrangements include appropriate contractual, logistical safeguards to support assured supply, sustainability and operational resilience.
The ICJ advisory opinion of 19 July 2024 has made it clear that all States must abstain from entering into economic or trade dealings with Israel concerning the occupied Palestinian territory that may entrench its unlawful presence there.
Directive 2009/81/EC sets out European rules for public procurement in the fields of defence and security and applies in principle to all contracts for the procurement of military equipment, works and services as well as procurement of sensitive supplies, works and services for security purposes. This Directive allows for certain exclusions or restrictions to access to tender competitions by third country bidders.
Since the ICJ advisory opinion of 19 July 2024, the Department has included provisions in its tender documentation regarding the right to reject offers from third countries, which includes Israel, on defence and security grounds, in line with the Commission guidance on the procurement of defensive equipment under Directive 2009/18/EU.
There is no intention to purchase military equipment from Israel.
209. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Defence if she will provide a report on the progress made implementing the Programme for Government commitments within her remit and on the achievements since the formation of the Government; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41382/26]
View answerMy Department has taken a number of actions to ensure delivery on commitments in the Programme for Government 2025 - Securing Ireland’s Future. these are set out in the following table:
|
|
Programme for Government Commitment |
Action Taken by the Department of Defence |
|
1. |
The Government will preserve and protect Ireland’s policy of active military neutrality. We also recognise that while we strongly value our military neutrality, we are not politically neutral. We will continue to engage with international partners and we will reform the Triple Lock legislation whilst also ensuring that amendments to the legislation are in keeping with our values and policy of active military neutrality. |
The General Scheme of the Defence (Amendment) Bill 2025 was published in May 2025. The purpose of this legislation is to consolidate and amend the existing legislative provisions regarding the Triple Lock, taking account of the changed geo-political environment in which the Defence Forces now operate.
The proposed legislation continues to preserve Ireland's policy of military neutrality, while affording the Government greater autonomy on the deployment or despatch of more than 12 troops overseas. It is anticipated that the full text of the Bill go to government for approval by the end of Q2 2026. |
|
2. |
We will also continue to co-operate with international partners in pursuit of our security interests and in line with our values, focussing on: - International security and peacekeeping - Protection of critical undersea infrastructure - More efficient procurement of military equipment - Cyber security and countering hybrid threats - Training, upskilling and knowledge sharing |
The Defence Forces continue their long tradition of contributing to international peacekeeping MOUs concluded with a number of international partners in relation to procurement, training opportunities and knowledge sharing. My Department's Maritime Security Strategy, which was published in February 2026, identifies in its action plan the cooperation with international partners that will be pursued in relation to maritime security and hybrid threats. In terms of procurement of military equipment Memorandums of Understanding have been established with Finland, France, UK and the Netherlands with further MOUs expected to be established in the near future. |
|
3. |
Continue to increase investment in Defence, providing the funding and political support necessary to achieve Level of Ambition 2 Enhanced Capability, and move as quickly as possible to Level of Ambition 3 with commensurate investment as appropriate |
Following a record investment of €1.35 billion for the Defence Vote in Budget 2025, Budget 2026 provided a further increased allocation of €1.49 billion for the Defence sector. An additional €1.7 billion was also allocated for capital investment under the National Development Plan 2025-2030. |
|
4. |
Deliver continued reform of the military leadership structures, including the changes necessary to establish a new Chief of Defence (CHOD) role. |
Approval to draft Heads of Bill on these complex legislative provisions was agreed in 2025. It is expected that the General Scheme of the proposed legislation to establish the role of Chief of Defence, in line with the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces, will be brought to government for approval in Q3 2026. |
|
5. |
Continue to support the High Level Action Plan on the implementation of the Commission on Defence Forces, including the identification of HQ locations. |
54 of the Recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces were completed by end of Q1 2026. The actions contained in the Strategic Framework 2026, and the Updated Detailed Implementation Plan for the Commission on the Defence Forces will continue to be actioned throughout 2026. |
|
6. |
Ensure full delivery of the new Joint Cyber Defence Command strategy published by the last Government. |
A dedicated Joint Cyber Defence Command has been established, led at a new senior position of Brigadier General rank, taking over cyber operations previously led by Communications and Information Services (CIS) Corps. Additional staff have been approved to resource this new Command in achieving its initial operational capacity. |
|
7. |
Prioritise the regeneration and growth of Ireland’s Naval Service, including the Naval Reserve, with a focus on protecting our significant and expanding sub-sea data cabling infrastructure and emerging offshore energy sector |
Following the establishment of a force design team for the Naval Service, work continues apace on the regeneration of the Naval Service, with targeted recruitment and retention campaigns executed throughout 2025. In addition, renovation works at Haulbowline are ongoing and have already increased the number and quality of accommodation available at the Base. The strength of the Naval Service grew in 2025 from 719 at the beginning of the year, to 784 personnel at year end. Finalisation and actioning of a Naval Service Regeneration Plan will take place during 2026. In June 2025, a contract was awarded to Thales France for towed sonar capability, which heralds new and growing opportunities for the Naval Service in the coming years. |
|
8. |
Review our military intelligence structures to ensure that our intelligence services are optimised to protect national security. |
A General Scheme of a Bill is currently being drafted so that the roles and functions of Military Intelligence will be underpinned by legislation. The rollout of Defence Attaché network is being progressed. |
|
9. |
Plan for the interoperability of specialist Defence Forces with specialist units of An Garda Síochána on national defence matters |
Significant engagement was conducted between the Defence Forces and An Garda Síochana throughout 2025, with a focus on interoperability between Special Operations Forces and the Emergency Response Unit of An Garda Siochana. Agreement was reached on the continued alignment of processes and procedures between the DF and AGS. |
|
10. |
Continue to drive forward modernisation and cultural change, fully supporting the External Oversight Board in its work, implementing outstanding IRG recommendations and making our military a modern, effective and attractive employer of choice. |
The independent External Oversight Body of the Defence Forces is a critical element in driving the necessary changes in workplace culture and behaviour in the Defence Forces. The Body was established in April 2023, initially on a non-statutory basis. The Body was established on a statutory basis from 1 December 2024. The Body oversees and monitors the management of human resources of the Defence Forces, and provides advice to the Minister on any matters arising from these oversight functions. The Body reports to the Minister for Defence on a six-monthly basis on the performance and progress of the Defence Forces on matters within the Body’s remit. The Body published its Strategy Statement 2026-2028. The Body has submitted its annual report for 2025 to the Minister for Defence which will be laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas following the Minister’s approval. |
|
11. |
Cooperate fully with the Tribunal of Inquiry into Certain Matters relating to the complaints processes in the Defence Forces. |
The Defence Forces Tribunal of Inquiry ('the Tribunal') was established by Statutory Instrument (SI 304 of 2024) on 20 June 2024. The Tribunal issued Orders for Discovery against the Minister for Defence and separately against the Chief of Staff in January 2025 requiring the discovery of documents held in the Department of Defence / Defence Forces which come within the Terms of Reference for the Tribunal. This significant discovery exercise, covering four decades of documents, was completed in Q4 2025. The Department of Defence continues to cooperate fully with the Tribunal of Inquiry and assists the Tribunal in a variety of ways, most recently obtaining sanction from the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation for the Tribunal to engage an additional solicitor on a part-time basis to assist with an increased workload and also obtaining the assistance of the Electoral Commission who will assist the Tribunal in providing additional office space in Smithfield, if required, during the public hearings. The Tribunal has indicated by a notice on its website that it will commence public hearings on 3 June 2026. |
|
12. |
Continue the process of improving pay and conditions for serving personnel, while also continuing to build on improvements in the recruitment process including a nationwide programme for Transition Year and Third Level students, with a view to achieving the target of 11,500 personnel and better representation of women at all levels of the Defence Forces |
Following the significant progress that has been made on pay and benefits for the Defence Forces, the most recent pay increase awarded in February 2026 resulted in the application of the following starting salaries: (i) Recruits on completion of training are paid: €42,465 Year 1 (€13,139 or a 44% increase since 2020) (ii) A school leaver Cadet on commissioning is paid €46,359 (representing an increase of €15,475 or 50% from 2019). After 2 years, their pay rises to €51,748. (iii) The pay rate for a graduate entrant on commissioning begins at €51,748. All pay rates are inclusive of the Military Service Allowance. In addition, the following matters were instigated and/or continued throughout 2025: -The Service Commitment Scheme previously available to pilots in the Air Corps was extended to Air Traffic Controllers. - The implementation of a payment to Officer Instructors in the Defence Forces was introduced in 2025. - The application of the Working Time Directive across the Defence Forces in January 2025 subject to certain exemptions. - The extension of private medical care to all ranks in the Defence Forces. - A doubling of the Patrol Duty allowance, effective from 1 January 2024. - Extension of the Naval Service tax credit up to 2029. As of the 30 April 2026, the strength of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) stood at 7,741 personnel; this represents a year-on-year increase of more than 200 personnel on the total of 7,512 recorded for the same period last year. The outsourcing of elements of the recruitment process for the Naval Service, including the targeting of skilled individuals required by the Naval Service, yielded positive results in 2025 with a total of 24 Direct Entry specialists recruited, the largest amount in over 5 years. In line with current policies and commitments, several initiatives have been implemented to increase the level of female participation in the Permanent Defence Force. These include: - Inclusion of a female perspective in marketing * Awareness campaigns aimed at bridging the knowledge gap for women about DF careers - Women and men are present at career and outreach events - Review of recruitment processes to ensure fairness - Review of advertisements to ensure they are inclusive - Creation of new induction streams to appeal to females - Female ad campaign was launched in February 2026 and the first cycle has been completed. |
|
13. |
Continue to examine incentives and structural changes to make a military career accessible to a wider range of candidates, and to encourage existing personnel to extend their military careers, including Rewarding Long Service and broadening eligibility criteria. |
Since the mandatory retirement age for Defence Force members increased from 60 to 62 on 19 August 2024, currently 20 officers and 83 enlisted personnel in this age group are still serving who would have had to retire at 60 under the mandatory retirement age regulations in place prior to that date. A further 19 personnel remained in service past the age of 60 since 19 August 2024, who since retired. Therefore, in total, 122 personnel availed of the opportunity to continue their careers after the age of 60 since August 2024. In 2023, 755 members retired/discharged from the Defence Forces, in 2024 that number was 674 and 583 personnel retired or discharged in 2025. A number of positive retention measures have been introduced in recent years for members of the Defence Forces. The reduction in the numbers leaving is due to a multitude of factors. Given the numbers who are continuing their military careers past the previous retirement age, the increased mandatory retirement age would appear to be a contributory factor. In relation to turnover, last year’s rate of 7.6% was down on the previous year’s figure of 9% and from a rate of 10% recorded for 2023. Average turnover rate since 2019 was just over 9%. |
|
14. |
Establish a properly resourced Office of Veterans Affairs, based within the Department of Defence and working across Government to assist with the needs of our veterans. |
In line with this government's commitment in the Programme for Government, and the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces, the Department of Defence established the dedicated Office of Veterans Affairs in Q4 2025. |
|
15. |
Enhance the Personnel Support Service (PSS), which provides essential support to the families and partners of Defence Force members, recognising the importance of their contribution. |
The Personnel Support Service (PSS) is available both in state and on overseas deployments for serving members and their families. The PSS includes a team of senior occupational social workers and trained military employee assistance personnel. To date, additional Social Workers have been recruited, with more recruitment and other enhancements planned. Engagement has taken place between the incoming OiC PSS and key internal stakeholders with a view to understanding their needs in the context of ongoing PSS enhancement. Engagement has also taken place on the development of the future structures required for the PSS. |
|
16. |
Ensure the further development of our Reserve Defence Force, ensuring that the newly established Office of Reserve Affairs and the Regeneration and Development Plan is fully resourced and equipped and take all steps to increase the number of reserves. |
My Department is carrying out a review of the Reserve Defence Force, which started in Q2 2025 and will continue through the first half of 2026. This includes a review of the relevant legal and policy frameworks. Specialist recruitment for the RDF continues, with increased upper recruitment and mandatory retirement ages introduced, the implementation of new and improved onboarding and induction processes and initiatives aimed at female participation among the changes implemented. |
|
17. |
Introduce financial supports for Irish SMEs who facilitate staff to be members of the RDF and explore the potential of our higher and further education institutions as centres for promoting a geographically dispersed reservist culture across the country. |
My Department has committed to complete a further evaluation of Employment Protection Legislation. Engagement with the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment is ongoing and it is planned to host a series of meetings with stakeholders, including ‘Business in the Communities’ in Quarter 3 2026. These meetings will also include discussions on financial supports for Irish SMEs who facilitate staff to be members of the RDF. The Office of Reserve Affairs are exploring the potential of our higher and further education institutions as centres for promoting a geographically dispersed reservist culture across the country. |
|
18. |
Ensure effective implementation of the Working Time Directive. |
The blanket exclusion of the Defence Forces from the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997 was removed, subject to the derogations permitted by the Working Time Directive. |
|
19. |
Deliver enhanced radar capability for the country, with an integrated Monitoring and Surveillance System across Maritime, Land and Air domains. |
In line with the assessment of the joint civil-military Project Team, a Government-level approach was deemed to be the most effective way for Ireland to develop the required radar capabilities. This approach guarantees the use of the experience and knowledge of a trusted partner country which cannot be provided through any other option, particularly as we need to procure a new capability in order to develop a complete Recognised Air Picture. The Preliminary Business Case concluded that the French proposal substantially fulfils Ireland’s capability requirements under this Programme and provides a high level of confidence in their overall ability to deliver across all aspects. The first phase of the Military Radar Project is currently being rolled out, including the acquisition of Counter UAS capabilities in advance of Ireland assuming the Presidency of the EU. |
|
20. |
Upgrade the military transport fleet, deliver additional Air Corps capacity, and deliver next generation radio communications and signal equipment. |
Air Corps capability was strengthened considerably with the following additions to the existing fleet: - A third C295 aircraft was delivered in October 2025, which is capable of troop transport, as well as maritime patrol operations. - The Strategic Reach Aircraft was delivered in December 2025, providing greater range (in distance and mission type) for the Air Corps. - The roll out of new software defined radios is underway at present. |
|
21. |
Progress the Naval Service Vessel Renewal and Replacement Programme, replacing secondary armament across the fleet and enhancing our subsea capabilities |
2025 was the first full year of operations of the L.E. Aoibhinn (P71)- one of two Inshore Patrol Vessels purchased from New Zealand and commissioned in 2024. This increased the Naval Service patrol and monitoring presence in the Irish Sea. The programme of works for the midlife refit and upgrade of the P50 class vessels, the LÉ Róisín and the LÉ Niamh, has been completed. Both ships are currently in operational reserve. A contract was signed with Thales France to develop Ireland's subsea capability in June 2025. Project to replace secondary armament on Naval vessels underway. |
|
22. |
We will continue to develop our maritime support infrastructure, investing to future proof Haulbowline Naval Base, and establishing an additional East Coast Base for the Naval Service. |
Building on the Infrastructure Development Plan, the Government approved the development of a series of Masterplans for each military installation in the state, including Haulbowline Naval Base. Each masterplan will: - identify the future development of Defence sites - future proof infrastructure to achieve LOA2 and LOA3 - identify the need for any restrictions on areas in proximity to installations. In 2025 the Upgrade of Block 4 Accommodation in Haulbowline was completed providing accommodation for some 74 personnel and the refurbishment of Block 9 at a contract value of over €9m continued with a projected completion in mid 2026 |
|
23. |
We will continue the transformational investment in the military estate and the upgrading of barracks across the country, including major upgrade of Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel. |
The Airside Masterplan for Casement Aerodrome was completed in 2025, with development options equivalent to over €200 million in investment. By end of year 2025, eight capital investment projects had been completed at Casement Aerodrome, with a further project under construction. |
|
24. |
We will audit the existing military estate and examine the feasibility of developing new accommodation on the estate for military personnel. |
In 2025 the Upgrade of Block 4 Accommodation in Haulbowline Naval Base was completed providing accommodation for some 74 personnel. |
|
25. |
Implement the ‘Civil Defence –Towards 2030’ policy, including delivery of a new centralised volunteer and equipment management system. |
Each of the 28 Civil Defence Units across the country carried out a review of its Development Plan throughout 2025 for the current multi-annual planning process. The Civil Defence also continues to invest in the online Volunteer and Equipment Management System, which brings together all key Civil Defence volunteer, duty and equipment management information on one platform. |
210. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Defence the number of Irish personnel who are or have been taking part in Operation Irini in the Mediterranean; if Ireland's participation will be continuing; if not, the reasons for withdrawing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41400/26]
View answer211. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Defence the position in relation to the UN Security Council mandate for the continuation of Operation Irini in the Mediterranean; whether Ireland can continue to participate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41401/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 210 and 211 together.
EUNAVFOR MED Operation IRINI was established by the European Union with the core executive task being the implementation of the UN arms embargo on Libya under UNSCR 1970 (2011) and UNSCR 2292 (2016), with the EU Council Decision underpinning the Mission particularly referencing UNSCR 2292.
Government approval for Ireland’s participation in Operation IRINI was granted on 22nd May 2020 on that basis. This approval provided for the deployment of up to three (3) Permanent Defence Force personnel to the Operational Headquarters (OHQ) in Rome, as well as the potential for the future deployment of up to two personnel to the Force Headquarters (FHQ) at sea.
In 2023, Government approved the deployment of a single Naval Service patrol vessel to the Operation for a period of 46 days in total during June and July of that year. This deployment required the approval of Government and Dáil Éireann in accordance with the “Triple Lock” provisions of the Defence Acts.
Recently, operational and political constraints have increasingly limited the effective implementation of the Mission's core taskings, with the UN mandate requiring renewal every six months since 2024, at significant political cost. Difficulties in carrying out the embargo related taskings of the Mission have also resulted in a move to more of a Shadow Fleet monitoring focus in its Mediterranean Area of Operations.
The non-renewal by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) of its mandate for EUNAVFOR MED Operation IRINI (UNSCR 2292 of 2016), which expired on 24th May (Sunday), now requires that Ireland withdraw its Defence Forces personnel from the Mission.
In the context of the proposed Defence Amendment (Triple Lock) Bill, if it proceeds with the removal of the requirement for a United Nations mandate as part of the “Triple Lock”, our decision on Operation Irini would have differed materially.
Overall, a total of 95 personnel have deployed on the mission which includes personnel on board one (1) naval ship which deployed during June and July 2023 for a 34-day deployment period. The breakdown of Defence Forces Personal are as follows: three (3) in the OHQ and one (1) in the FHQ. The four (4) personnel currently in the mission have been advised that they will likely be leaving the operational HQ as the mandate has lapsed.
The European External Action Service and the Director General of the European Union Military Staff are being advised of Ireland’s intention to conclude its participation in EUNAVFOR Operation IRINI following the expiration of the UNSC mandate.
