Helen McEntee
Meath East · Fine Gael · Ireland
“There are no new missions, so there is only so much we can partake in. In regard to UN requests over the past ten years, in September 2019, we had 14 Defence Forces personnel deployed to a UN mission in Mali as part of a joint operation with the German armed forces.”
“I thank the Deputy for his continued engagement on this matter. It is appreciated and I reaffirm our shared commitment to truth and justice, not least for Private Rooney, but in particular for his family.”
“I thank the Deputy for raising the matter. I know he is committed to this issue; I am too. I have in recent months spent some time travelling to different barracks and Army bases and meeting with personnel. What I see all over the country is their professionalism, dedication and commitment.”
“I disagree that people are being pushed into the courts. The situation is exactly the opposite. I have said in the Chamber many times since I started taking these questions that the State Claims Agency is there and wants to mediate and work directly with people in order that cases do not go directly to the courts.”
“We are all committed to strengthening recruitment to and supporting retention in the Permanent Defence Force. The military authorities have advised that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force stood at 7,823 personnel on 31 May, the most recent date for which we have a figure available.”
“It is the case that no mission is the same, so it is also a matter for the Defence Forces to assess and scope out the mission and then to decide whether it is a mission we can partake in. A question keeps being asked about what it is we would not be able to be a part of if we were to keep the triple lock.”
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“Article 20 of the Treaty on European Union sets out a mechanism of enhanced co-operation that allows a minimum of nine member states to set up advanced co-operation in a particular area. This is provided for when the EU as a whole cannot achieve the goals of such co-operation within a reasonable period. The remaining 24 member states, including Ireland, requested the European Commission to prepare a proposal for a Council decision authorising enhanced co-operation on establishing the loan for Ukraine. Approval to proceed with enhanced co-operation is granted by the Council based on a European Commission proposal and following European Parliament consent. Agreement in principle to the European Commission proposal on enhanced co-operation was provided at the Committee of Permanent Representatives on 9 January this year.”
“Given its imminent financing needs, it is absolutely critical that European financial supports are disbursed to Ukraine in the second quarter at the latest. These supports will further advance strategic investment in Ukraine and contribute to overall European security, defence and sustainable economic development. Therefore, continued and co-ordinated support from international partners remains essential, including timely delivery and commitments by the G7 for 2026 and beyond. While the December European Council agreed the €90 billion loan, it was not possible to get agreement by all 27 member states, with Czechia, Hungary and Slovakia opting not to participate.”
“Despite intensive discussions, it was, unfortunately, not possible to come to an agreement on this proposed reparations loan at the December European Council, although leaders asked for work to continue on the technical and legal aspects of the loan. In place of that proposal, leaders agreed the Ukraine support loan of €90 billion for 2026 and 2027 using EU borrowing on capital markets, to be repaid by reparations due by Russia, and backed by the EU budget headroom. The European Commission is currently working with member states on the regulations to underpin this. The €90 billion support package is estimated to cover two thirds of Ukraine's overall financing needs for the next two years but, obviously, more will be needed.”
“The level of uncertainty in this regard remains exceptionally high, not least due to Russia's intensified attacks. The European Commission has advised member states that the financial situation in Ukraine requires a disbursement of EU moneys by April. It is in this context that the new financial support from the EU is urgently needed. Given the ongoing war and these imminent financing needs, extensive efforts took place within the EU in late 2025 to agree a reparations loan for Ukraine of €210 billion to cover the period up to 2030. It was proposed that this be funded either by borrowing cash balances from banks and other financial companies holding immobilised Russian Central Bank assets or by joint EU borrowing guaranteed by EU budget headroom.”
“There has been widespread international support for Ukraine, particularly from the EU. Since the start of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, the EU and its member states have collectively provided €193.3 billion in overall support. This includes, for example, €18 billion under macro-financial assistance, which is the EU's contribution to the G7 extraordinary revenue acceleration line, and €50 billion under the EU's Ukraine facility budget, of which €28 billion has already been disbursed. On 3 December 2025, European Commission President von der Leyen made a statement on Ukraine's financing needs, noting the estimate by the International Monetary Fund, IMF, that Ukraine will need €135 billion for 2026 and 2027. However, that assumes the war will end later this year.”
“This was recently re-emphasised during President Zelenskyy's visit to Dublin in December and by the Taoiseach at the European Council meeting later that month. Since the onset of the war in February 2022, Ireland's total allocated support to Ukraine amounts to more than €464.4 million. This includes €173.4 million in stabilisation and humanitarian assistance, €200 million in bilateral non-lethal military support for Ukraine, €66 million in non-lethal military support under the European Peace Facility and €25 million specifically aimed at supporting the provision of energy to Ukraine. The latter allocation was announced just last month. Beyond financial support, Ireland has also welcomed over 123,700 people fleeing Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine since that war began. That is happening under the temporary protection directive.”
“Uncertainty levels remain elevated, economic momentum has slowed, investment and consumer spending have weakened, inflation has risen and supply disruptions, including to energy supplies, have emerged. Member states have been forced to take action to mitigate these economic impacts and enhance their security and defence infrastructure. How Europe and the international community respond has far-reaching consequences for Ukraine, European security, the European economy and the future of the international rules-based order on which our security and prosperity depend. Ireland has consistently expressed its unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The people of Ireland feel strong empathy and solidarity with the people of Ukraine.”
“Russia's illegal war of aggression has claimed almost 15,000 civilian lives and over 100,000 military casualties. It has forced the migration of 6 million people and caused over €450 billion worth of damage to Ukraine's infrastructure. Recent weeks have seen an escalation in deeply disturbing drone and missile attacks targeting critical infrastructure. These attacks have killed and injured civilians and left millions without power or heating in the depths of winter. Each day that Russia continues its brutal war against Ukraine is another day that Russia continues to violate international law and make the world, in particular Europe, a less secure and more dangerous place. The war is having a broad impact on the European continent, particularly from an economic, fiscal and security perspective.”
“I move: That Dáil Éireann approves the exercise by the State of the option or discretion to which Article 20 of the Treaty on European Union relating to enhanced co-operation applies to establish enhanced co-operation as described in the draft Council Decision authorising enhanced co-operation on the establishment of a Loan for Ukraine, a copy of which was laid before Dáil Éireann on 21st January, 2026. This motions seeks approval from the Dáil for Ireland to exercise the option, in accordance with Article 29.4.7° of Bunreacht na hÉireann, to participate in enhanced co-operation on the establishment of a loan for Ukraine. It is almost four years since Russia's unprovoked, unlawful and unjustifiable attack on Ukraine began. The situation in Ukraine remains grave.”
“I want to work with the Members to ensure our Defence Forces, the men and women who literally keep us and so many others safe, as they have done for many years right across the globe, have the support they need and know they have our support and that, as the only Defence Forces, in this country their members have the equipment, technology, infrastructure and capabilities they need to be able to do their jobs as effectively as possible in the extremely challenging and worrying environment we are living in at the moment. I look forward to working with colleagues on this issue in the time ahead.”
“At the outset, I mentioned one of the very significant changes that have been made, which is the introduction of the Organisation of Working Time Act in January 2025. This work, which is known as strand 3, is under way. I appreciate it is a complex piece of work that impacts across a range of areas, but I look forward to it being brought to a conclusion very soon. There is so much that we could discuss and so much happening, but, for me, it is very much about us being on the same page.”
“I am pleased to have engaged with not just the Defence Forces but also the body that has been put in place and is chaired by Patricia King. It has done a huge amount of work both before and since the survey was undertaken. It continues to respond to the many concerns raised, not just around sexual harassment or issues that came to the fore through the Women of Honour group, but also the many other issues raised at all levels through the Naval Service, Air Corps and the Permanent Defence Force. It is important we keep that focus and continue working with the Defence Forces on these issues to bring about the types of organisational changes that perhaps had not come to the fore in recent times.”
“Another issue that has come to the fore in recent years is the overall environment for members of the Defence Forces - not just female members, but all members. I was pleased to last week publish the first Value Our People survey. This was undertaken over the past year by the Defence Forces. Over 60% of members engaged in the process which is the highest feedback they have received. This touched on quite a number of different issues. It was not just pay. It looked at the conditions in which members work, the equipment they have, as well as looking at the overall work environment. It touched on some really difficult issues around sexual harassment and other issues that have really come to the fore in recent years.”
“A number of matters set out in the motion are currently being considered through the C and A process, which remains the most appropriate and effective in terms of their overall resolution. I will very briefly comment on our chaplains as it is a matter that has come up and been raised with me a number of times. It is also something I will speak to the unions about. My officials are examining the status of the chaplains going forward and the potential legislative underpinning needed to provide for changes to status. This is something I am working with my officials on and will speak to the representative associations about tomorrow. I think it is accepted that the proposals will necessitate amendments to primary legislation and, if that is the case, I am happy to bring that forward as well.”
“I am conscious of this issue and that it is a concern. It is certainly something I will engage with the unions on. In recognition of the need to retain experienced and skilled personnel and to enable personnel to extend their careers in the Defence Forces, the mandatory retirement age for members was extended to 62 years of age with effect from 19 August 2024. This was at the same time the mandatory retirement age for members of An Garda Síochána was also extended. That was something I worked closely on at the time. The move very much aims to address in part the provision of extended career opportunities for members, if they so wish. From my understanding of the figures and looking at them to date, we are starting to see that having a positive impact, but we hope to see greater impact in the time ahead.”
“I appreciate that we currently do not have the adjudicator in place for the Defences Forces and for the scheme, but I know there is a lot of work happening on both sides to make sure that it is in place as soon as possible. In relation to the arbitration board, I am pleased to say that yesterday the Government approved the appointment and reappointment of members to the arbitration board. The new term will run until 7 November 2026. I will briefly touch on issues relating to pensions, including those affecting single scheme entrants since 2013. This is something that continues to be raised by the representative bodies, but, as all Members know, this is an issue that arises from public service-wide legislation and is something that will be discussed with other Departments and other sectors as well.”
“Turning to a number of points made specifically in the motion, I assure the House that I am committed to ensuring a fully functioning conciliation and arbitration system for the Defence Forces; one that operates effectively, transparently and with the confidence of all parties involved. The conciliation and arbitration, C and A, scheme for members of the PDF provides a formal mechanism for the military representative associations, RACO and PDFORRA. I will meet officials from both organisations tomorrow to engage on matters that come within the scope of the overall scheme. In the event of disagreements, one or other of the parties can seek adjudication or arbitration on the matter. It is important that we have this in place.”
“We need to ensure that we invest in the infrastructure in which the men and women are staying, sleeping, eating and going to the gym, because that is a sign that we recognise and fully support the work they do. In addition, a significant portion of funding through the NDP will be used to invest in new uniforms for the men and women of Óglaigh na hÉireann and in the new equipment they require. In the context of our capital budget, this year a record allocation of €1.49 billion for the defence sector is being provided. Again, this is an increase of €145 million on 2025. As Minister, I will do everything I can to continue to increase the current budget.”
“At the end of 2025, over €270 million worth of capital projects were at various different stages of the procurement pipeline, from design, planning and construction to substantial completion. Notable projects for this year include: the military medical facility in Baldonnel, at a cost of €16.2 million; the block 1 accommodation complex in Collins Barracks, Cork, at a cost of €4.9 million; and the new dining hall in Aiken Barracks, Dundalk, at a cost of €5.5 million. The total allocation for infrastructure capital works this year stands at just under €70 million, with €13.5 million set aside for the Defence Forces in respect of the maintenance of existing infrastructure. I recently visited Gormanston in my constituency to see how the various buildings are progressing.”
“This is something that I have asked be moved forward to make sure we have that capability in place and that we start that process this year in the context of our Presidency. This is an essential step in the Government's plan to enhance our national security and the need to continuously strengthen our defence capabilities. The defence sectoral plan also provides for Air Corps modernisation and other key equipment investments, including procurement of subsea domain awareness capability for the Defence Forces. I recognise that training will be required in this regard. This is a key priority in order to ensure that when we have the requisite equipment in place, we will also have personnel capable of using it. I am pleased to report that there has been a significant investment in defence infrastructure.”
“This is an increase of €600 million, or a 55% increase, on the previous baseline figure of €1.1 billion. This is about modernising and transforming the capabilities of the Defence Forces across a number of different domains, and ensuring Ireland continues to meet its national and international security responsibilities. I am particularly conscious of the fact that our EU Presidency will start later this year and of the need to ensure that everything that can be done is done as soon as possible to make sure we have the right structures and the infrastructure in place. Key elements include record multi-annual investment, rising from €300 million in 2026 to €360 million in 2029, with major capability upgrades across land, air, maritime and cyber domains. This will include full delivery of the military radar programme by 2028.”
“Good progress has been made in this area. While progress made in this regard stands to be further enhanced with the additional pay awards due later on in February under the terms of the current public sector pay agreement. I know there is much more we need to do and that is something we need to work across government in progressing. As Senators will be aware, we recently launched the Defence Sectoral National Development Plan 2026-2030, which sets out a very clear and ambitious vision for the future of our Defence Forces, again aligning with the overall objectives of the Commission on the Defence Forces. I am absolutely committed to ensuring that there is continuing ongoing transformation of our Defence Forces. Capital funding of €1.7 billion has been allocated.”
“To use the association's words, there is huge "untapped potential" that we can work with and that can support the overall work of our Defence Forces. Sustaining the progress made in 2025 is a priority and is essential, which is why the Defence Forces are targeting the recruitment of more than 850 personnel this year. It was just under 800 last year. We are increasing our target and will do everything do try to exceed that as well. As today's motion recalls most of the positive measures introduced in recent years, I will not dwell on them. However, I would like to say a few words about some of the progress made on pay. Pay and conditions, while they are not everything - and from speaking to members, I understand that absolutely - they are an important part of ensuring the Defence Forces can recruit and retain the people they need.”
“The next step is making sure we take progress those applications. The strategic workforce plan on which I am working with my Department and the Defence Forces will set out a very clear and evidence-based pathway to achieving that overall strength of 11,500 personnel aligned with our future capability needs. Just this week, I met with members of the Defence Forces and staff of my Department to discuss the work they are doing to set out the strategic workforce plan that needs to include members of the Defence Forces and an increased focus on civilianisation, an area in which there is so much work that can be done. We will also make sure to continue to increase the number of Reserve members. I met with their representative association yesterday, and huge strides are in progress.”
“The motion before the House also recognises the enormous strides that have been made in recent years, whether that is, as I have said, in relation to progress on pay, the extension of private medical care to all ranks, and the maximum retirement age and the recruitment age, or the commencement of the working time directive. That said, it should be acknowledged in the context of almost full employment in our economy, that these are challenges that are not just unique to the Defence Forces. They are challenges being faced by all armed forces right across Europe. What is becoming increasingly clear is that the reforms that are being introduced and have taken time are making that difference, although I appreciate there is more to do. Last year, 16,510 applications from people seeking to join the Defence Forces were received.”
“Our personnel are our greatest asset, and supporting them in their careers, their well-being and their development remains my central priority. The motion before the House rightly acknowledges the substantial progress made in recent years. Meaningful improvements have been delivered in pay, medical care, retirement and in recruitment age and working conditions, including the commencement and the application of the working time directive across the Defence Forces in January 2025. There is real and tangible progress under way. Again, last year saw an increase of almost 200 personnel in strength. While I appreciate that is not the number we want to get to and is a modest step, it is to be welcomed nonetheless. It reflects a positive trajectory which we need to continue.”
“The Bill will address that. I have engaged on the pre-legislative scrutiny that has taken place with colleagues, and I look forward to working with Senators and engaging with them on the many important proposals they suggested at the committee. As I have heard already from colleagues, one constant always emerges on any debate on defence and that is the deep respect, admiration and pride we all feel for the women and men of Óglaigh na hÉireann. They are, without question, the Defence Forces' greatest strength. The Government is committed to ensuring that the Defence Forces have the equipment, resources and capabilities required to fulfil the roles assigned to them. I, too, acknowledge the Members of this House and the Dáil who have served and who are serving members. At the heart of the Government's commitment is a clear focus on people.”
“It is really important in the world in which we live that we are working and engaging not just with our nearest neighbours but also with our international partners. Given what is happening, that has never been more important. I look forward to working with Senators on all of these issues. Regarding our legislative programme, the first legislation I intend to have before the Seanad in the coming weeks is the Defence (Amendment) Bill. The latter is aimed at changing the basis of how we deploy our Defence Forces personnel overseas, including changing the triple lock. For me and for many people here and other colleagues, it is simply not acceptable, particularly in light of recent global turmoil, that any one of five permanent members of the UN Security Council have an essential veto on Ireland participating in peacekeeping missions overseas.”
“I acknowledge the work that has been done to date in respect of the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces. We need to be ambitious and work together to make sure that we can achieve the overall ambitious targets the report contains. As Minister, my priority is not just overseeing the implementation of the report but also ensuring that we support the men and women of Óglaigh na hÉireann to do what they do best, namely engaging in peacekeeping missions right across the world. The latter is something of which we have been so proud for many decades. My priority is also to support them in their work in protecting our citizens, our national security and our democracy, be that through legislative means, our overall investment by means of capital and current spending or through our partnerships with other countries.”
“As a result, it is right that we are here discussing this matter today. We are not on our own in this regard. Where colleagues make reference to Ireland perhaps being a weak link or a weak chain, particularly in the context of the recent visit of President Zelenskyy, I remind them that the visit went off extremely well. When I sit at the table and talk to other defence colleagues across Europe, I hear from them about issues with drones, instances where they have had to close airspace and where bombs have exploded on railway lines. It is very clear to me that we are all living in this shared challenging environment and we need to make sure we are all focused on the one thing, which is supporting our members of the Defence Forces. I can assure Senators that this is my priority.”
“I welcome our guests as well. I hope they have an enjoyable day. I thank the Senators for tabling this motion. I am really pleased to have an opportunity to engage with Senators for the first time in taking on this role. I look forward to working with many colleagues in relation to our Defence Forces in view of the significant change in geopolitical environment in which we find ourselves. We are discussing this matter at a time of huge volatility and uncertainty regarding our security and the security environment in general that we are operating in, from Ukraine to Gaza and from the continent of Africa to things that are happening much closer to home. Right now, defence and security issues rightly command greater public attention than they did even two or three years ago.”
“In fact, I think this month, in particular, has seen more challenges than we might see in any other given year. These challenges will have implications for Ireland, the EU, and our global partners. We will need to find innovative and effective solutions to the challenges we face, while being firm in ensuring we uphold our values and uphold our interests at international level. Working alongside our EU and like-minded partners will be essential, including during Ireland’s Presidency of the EU in the second half of this year. Of course, I welcome the opportunity to engage with all colleagues on these issues and many others today, but also over the coming year as we face them together. I thank the House.”
“It will remain the case, irrespective of the challenges we face, and we know there are many. Peace and security depend on all UN member states abiding by the fundamental principles of the UN Charter. We have seen the consequences when states do not do so. What is very clear is that all member states, large and small, must abide by the fundamental principles. The UN has a unique mandate to maintain international peace and security, and the legitimacy to bring nations together to find common solutions to shared challenges. While it may be imperfect, the UN and the primacy of international law is more important now than ever. Ireland’s commitment to the United Nations and the primacy of the UN Charter is without question. As I have outlined, we are facing into a range of significant foreign policy challenges in 2026.”
“We continue to call for the unconditional release of all political prisoners and for the full respect of human rights and international law by all actors. Ireland will continue to provide humanitarian support to the people of Venezuela and to Venezuelan refugees through the Venezuela Humanitarian Fund and the UNHCR regional migrant and refugee plan for Venezuela. Together with our international partners, Ireland remains committed to supporting all efforts to facilitate a democratic, peaceful and inclusive solution to the crisis, led by Venezuelans. Ireland’s foreign policy choices have been guided by our commitment always to multilateralism and the international legal order. This has been the case for the past seven decades, since Ireland joined the UN in 1955.”
“I will continue to engage with my colleagues I met last week, understanding the huge, challenging and difficult environment they are in with so many conflicts and ongoing situations happening around them. The situation in Venezuela remains delicate and uncertain. The principles of international law and the UN Charter must be fully respected and upheld in all circumstances. Ireland, together with our EU partners, has been clear in this regard. We have also made clear that Nicolás Maduro lacked any democratic legitimacy. Ireland has long advocated for a peaceful and negotiated transition to democracy in Venezuela. Respecting the will, in particular, of the Venezuelan people remains the only way for a restoration of democracy. We welcome news of the release of several political prisoners over the past few days.”
“Most recently, Syria witnessed another outbreak of localised violence in Aleppo, where government-aligned forces clashed with Kurdish fighters. While a ceasefire has since been agreed, it reminds us of the importance of supporting the new transitional government’s work towards creating unity and common systems that reflect a Syria that all Syrians can be a part of. The people of Yemen must also be free to safely choose their political future without negative external influence. Ireland has always stood for a political pathway to peace across the Middle East. It is clear that developments in the region will continue to command my attention and that of the Government, and this House, as we continue to witness the dynamics and the needs of change.”
“Even if the conflict were to end tomorrow, Lebanon faces massive physical reconstruction needs, estimated at $11 billion, while continuing to support the largest population of refugees per capita in the world. We have entered the final year of the UNIFIL mandate in Lebanon. We are all extremely proud of the contribution our peacekeepers have made and will continue to make in fulfilling their duties. Ireland remains committed to the future of Lebanon and we believe that it must be allowed the space to recover from past conflicts. Just over a year on from the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, it is clear that the new transitional government has many challenges to overcome. While huge strides and progress have been made, there are many challenges to overcome.”
“These include the nature of Iran’s nuclear programme, Iran’s support for militant groups and destabilisation around the Middle East, and Iran’s supply of weapons to Russia for its war of aggression on Ukraine. I want to assure those living here, and, in particular, Iranian citizens, that we will do everything we can to hold Iran accountable for its acts of repression and violence and to support the Iranian people at this time. Recent months have seen other significant developments in the Middle East demanding our attention and engagement. Lebanon continues its efforts to rebuild from the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel while also managing challenging political and economic reform needs.”
“Iran continues to block communication networks, including the Internet and international phone lines. I know many Iranians in Ireland have been unable to contact their families to find out if they are safe. It is completely unacceptable for any government or regime to cut off such access. What is it hiding? Full access to communications must be restored. In the circumstances, I have reduced diplomatic staff in Tehran, but the embassy remains open and all our staff, it is important to say, are safe. Ireland has also supported a call for an emergency special session of the UN Human Rights Council. Deputies will be aware that many other aspects of Iran’s policies are of great concern.”
“I am utterly appalled to read, as we have all seen, the emerging reports of the killing of large numbers of civilians. We do not have an actual number of how many people have been killed. Families trying to retrieve the bodies of their loved ones have been subject to further repression and intimidation. I utterly condemn the brutal use of violence by the Iranian authorities against its own population. The killing of civilians is deeply shocking. At my request, senior officials of my Department conveyed our concerns directly to the Iranian ambassador-designate on 12 January. The EU has also condemned these events and is working on further sanctions on those responsible. It seems that protests have significantly lessened, but that underlying issues have not been addressed by the authorities.”
“In Jordan, I visited an UNRWA camp and witnessed the vital services it was providing. UNRWA must be central to any effort to respond to the urgent needs of the Palestinian people. Ireland is an active member of the global alliance for the implementation of the two-state solution, which remains our focus and priority for the future of the region. I look forward to hosting a meeting of the alliance next week in Dublin, where we will share elements of our own experience of a successful peace process in Northern Ireland, which came together after many years and which we are still working on. I believe our experience and knowledge in what we have gone through is something that we could provide in support of the next stages in the Middle East. The Government is deeply concerned about developments in Iran.”
“This will be one of my key messages at next week's Foreign Affairs Council. During my visit, I was pleased to announce €42 million in assistance to the people of Palestine in 2026, including €20 million to support the work of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, UNRWA. I take the opportunity to acknowledge, commend and thank the unbelievable men and women who work for so many of the aid organisations and UNRWA, including the many Irish people I met when I was there. They are working in unimaginably difficult circumstances at a time when a significant proportion of the world has supported the work they do, but they are receiving much more push-back and much less funding. That is why our funding is so essential. This will bring Ireland's support to UNRWA to €78 million since January 2023.”
“During my visit to Rafah last week, I witnessed the range of humanitarian items prohibited by Israel from entering Gaza. It is completely unacceptable that rules would change daily and that life-saving equipment and humanitarian aid is not being let in. On that basis, prior to my visit, I wrote to Kaja Kallas, together with five of my colleagues, calling for renewed focus on the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, because a lot more needs to be done. I will continue to call for action at EU level to ease the immense suffering of Palestinians in Gaza. We need to see safe, rapid and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid at scale. Israel must immediately remove restrictions and facilitate essential supplies and services to reach people across the Gaza Strip.”
“More broadly, it is important that work continue to build on the progress that has been made so far on the next phase of the Gaza peace plan. It is important that the board focus on what it was due to be established for, which is making sure that the next stage of the peace plan can be brought into effect. It is clear that the first stage is extremely fragile. More than 400 innocent civilians have been killed since the ceasefire and it is clear that not nearly enough humanitarian aid is getting to those who need it most. The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is extremely concerning. The people of Gaza do not have enough to eat, adequate shelter from winter weather, or sufficient access to medicines, healthcare and sanitation. Acute food insecurity is expected to persist for 77% of the population, which is 1.6 million people.”
“We welcome the US role and contribution, alongside Egypt, Qatar and Türkiye, as mediators for the Gaza peace plan. I have consistently called on all parties to implement fully their commitments and for the international community to support these efforts. There has been much commentary on the recent US board of peace. The scope of the US proposal would appear to be wider than the Gaza peace plan. We attach the highest importance to the primacy of the UN Charter and the central role of the United Nations as the universal body charged with the maintenance of international peace and security, in accordance with international law. We have received an invitation to join the board of peace, which we will consider in close co-ordination with our partners.”
“As colleagues have, I call on Russia to end this brutal war and these brutal attacks, to agree to a ceasefire, and to engage meaningfully in talks with the US and Ukraine. I returned from a visit to the Middle East last week, where Gaza was a central focus. This was my first bilateral visit outside of Europe as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. There were several strands to this visit, the first of which was to strengthen bilateral relations with two key partners, Egypt and Jordan, which are incredibly strong relations. The second was to discuss efforts to progress implementation of the comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict, and to assess the situation regarding provision of humanitarian aid to Gaza. I have welcomed the announcement of the beginning of the second phase of the comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict.”
“I welcome the ongoing efforts of the United States and others to achieve a just and lasting peace that respects Ukraine's sovereignty and independence. We welcome progress made at meetings between the US and Ukraine to date. We welcome the progress that was made at the coalition of the willing, but we need to do more. Ireland will continue to support these efforts as part of the EU and through our membership of the coalition of the willing. The Paris declaration that was published after the meeting is a strong signal of support for Ukraine. It recognises that a lasting peace agreement will require robust security guarantees for Ukraine. This is not just vital for Ukraine. It is vital for European and Irish security. Ultimately, there is only one party that can end this war immediately, and that is Russia.”
“We continue to support the use of the European peace facility, EPF, to provide military support for Ukraine. In Ireland’s case, this support is non-lethal in nature. Regrettably, Hungary continues to block use of the EPF for this purpose. Last year, the Government provided €200 million in bilateral, non-lethal military support for Ukraine. The bulk of this has been provided through procurement partnerships with Denmark and Lithuania. This is to provide elements of air defence purchased from Ukraine’s defence industries. This support will help Ukraine to defend its towns, cities and energy infrastructure from Russia’s brutal air and drone attacks. Last month, the Government announced a contribution of €25 million in energy support. We will continue our support for Ukraine's pathway to membership of the EU.”
“Ireland fully supports sanctions on Russia. We support the Commission, which is working on proposals for the 20th package, which we expect will focus further on the energy sector and the shadow fleet. We must also step up our support for Ukraine to put it in the strongest possible position in peace negotiations. This was a key focus of the December European Council, where a €90 billion loan for Ukraine for 2026 and 2027 was agreed. It will be based on EU borrowing on the capital markets backed by the EU budget headroom. Ireland welcomes this decision, which ensures Ukraine has the finance it needs over the coming two years. We know that the longer this goes on, the more it will need. Ireland and its EU partners continue to provide Ukraine with the support necessary to exercise its right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter.”
“Addressing the Houses of the Oireachtas, he delivered a message of courage and hope, stating that Ukraine was closer to peace than ever before, but warned that grasping it would require the enduring unity of all its allies. Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure continue to increase in severity and scale, killing civilians and depriving millions of Ukrainians of electricity, heating and water in the depths of winter. There are quite literally thousands of people dying every month. The bombardment of civilian infrastructure, including the reported use of the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, is beyond concerning. The deliberate targeting of civilians is clearly a war crime. These are not the actions of a country interested in peace. In response, we must keep up pressure on Russia.”