Statement from the Tánaiste - 22 December 2023
Foilsithe
An t-eolas is déanaí
Teanga: Níl leagan Gaeilge den mhír seo ar fáil.
Foilsithe
An t-eolas is déanaí
Teanga: Níl leagan Gaeilge den mhír seo ar fáil.
"As we approach the Christmas break, my thoughts and the thoughts of people across Ireland and around the world will be with the many civilians suffering from conflict in Europe, the Middle East, and elsewhere. The terrible conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine have been particularly closely felt by people in Ireland.
"I have been horrified by the destruction we have witnessed in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory over the last number of months. International law limits the use of force in self-defence to no more than is necessary and proportionate. In the government’s view, Israel has exceeded these limits in its response to the Hamas attacks. This is demonstrated by the unacceptably high civilian death toll and the massive destruction of property, including people's homes, throughout Gaza, the displacement of up to two million people, and the ensuing humanitarian crisis. Chaos, death, and destruction has engulfed the life of every person in Gaza.
"Our thoughts are also with all the families of the victims of the brutal attack by Hamas on 7 October, including the family of Kim Damti, who was tragically killed on 7 October. We think also of 9-year-old Emily Hand, who was released from captivity after 50 days held by Hamas in Gaza, and her family, the 56 Irish people and their families that my department assisted in exiting from Gaza, as well as all those who remain in harm’s way. We continue to work to support the small number of Irish citizens and accompanying dependants still remaining.
"An overwhelming majority of the international community are demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of hostages, urgent and effective humanitarian access, and for the protection of civilians. It is unconscionable for the bombardment to continue. The violence must stop.
"At the same time, Russia continues its senseless war of aggression against Ukraine, shattering the relative peace we had enjoyed on our continent for almost 70 years. As the Ukrainian people face into their second winter under invasion, millions have been forced to flee their homeland, and millions more are internally displaced.
"We in Ireland have responded by welcoming over 100,000 Ukrainians to our country. This has not been without its challenges, but we must not lose sight of the reason why so many have sought refuge here.
"I welcome last week’s decision by the European Council to open accession negotiations with Ukraine. This represents a recognition of the progress Ukraine has made in implementing reforms, notwithstanding the extraordinary circumstances, and a reaffirmation that Ukraine’s future lies within the European family. Ireland has been one of the strongest advocates of Ukraine’s European path and we will continue to support them on their journey.
"As we approach the second anniversary of the launch of Russia’s invasion, Ireland will continue to stand with the Ukrainian people. In addition to providing political, financial and humanitarian assistance, and working for accountability for Russia’s actions, we will work with the Ukrainian Government and the international community to arrive at a just and lasting peace."