Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
236. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the weekday active and practical steps Ireland has taken to compel the European Commission to commence work on amending the Blocking Statute so that it can be quickly activated in defence of the International Criminal Court and ensuring continuity of its activities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45795/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland is a strong supporter of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which we view as the cornerstone of the international system of criminal justice. We deeply regret the imposition of US sanctions against eleven ICC elected officials and those who engage with the Court, including a UN Special Rapporteur. Such measures threaten to corrode the international legal order on which all states – but particularly small states like Ireland – depend. We call for all coercive measures against the ICC and UN officials to be withdrawn and for the Court to be allowed to continue its important independent and impartial work.
The Government reiterated its steadfast commitment to the Rome Statute framework during the official visit of ICC Vice President, Judge Rosario Salvatore Aitala, to Dublin on 9-10 June. During the visit Vice President Aitala discussed the impact of US sanctions with the Attorney General and with the Minister of State for European Affairs, as well as briefing the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The Government believes that a coordinated EU response is the most effective way to protect the ICC and its officials. Ireland has called on the Commission to commence preparatory work on amending the Blocking Statute so that it can be quickly activated at the most appropriate time, having regard in particular to when its activation will have the greatest impact in defending the Court and ensuring continuity of its activities.
In addition, it's essential to support the ICC in building resilience and encouraging service providers to continue to engage with the Court. Ireland has been actively engaging with fellow EU Member States, the European Commission and service providers to this end.
Ireland will continue to work with the Court, relevant stakeholders and our international partners in support of the ICC and its vital mandate to end impunity.
