Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 March 2026
82. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her position regarding the war in Sudan; the Government's position on same, in particular the need to ensure access to appropriate aid; her position on the continuing concerning flow of weapons into the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23095/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra135. Deputy Shane Moynihan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding Ireland’s engagement with international partners in responding to the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Sudan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22429/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 82 and 135 together.
The conflict in Sudan continues to have a devastating impact on civilians, particularly women and children. Ireland remains a strong and consistent advocate for increased engagement on Sudan, including at the EU and UN. We will continue our active role when we assume the EU Presidency in the second half of this year.
The conflict in Sudan has been devastating lives since April 2023. It is vital that we continue to address the urgent humanitarian crisis, ensure the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers, and explore all avenues towards an urgent, credible and inclusive Sudanese-led political solution. The critical issue of humanitarian access and the need to remove bureaucratic impediments to aid are at the heart of Ireland's diplomatic engagement. On 18 February, Minister McEntee, together with 31 other Ministers, signed a Joint Ministerial Statement on the Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Operations in Sudan. The Minister also joined a Human Rights Council Core Group statement, on 26 February, condemning the atrocities committed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in El Fasher.
Ireland will remain a principled and steadfast donor of humanitarian assistance. In 2025, we provided over €14.3 million in humanitarian assistance to support people most in need in Sudan and those displaced by the crisis in neighbouring countries. We are committed to further increasing our funding and our focus on Sudan this year, supporting partners who can provide lifesaving food and other assistance, including support for the protection of women and girls from sexual and gender based violence.
It is essential that harmful external engagement in the conflict must end. Specific allegations of violations of the UN embargo and EU sanctions are pursued through UN and EU channels. All parties must comply fully with their obligations and refrain from any actions that could prolong the conflict and fuel further violence.
