Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

-----to take further destabilising steps and indicated that we were ready to support strong action, something which our citizens expect.

The proposals on sectoral sanctions were discussed by EU ambassadors in Brussels on Tuesday of this week. In its intervention, Ireland indicated that it could agree with the package as proposed because it believes it to be effective and balanced. The measures were agreed and are expected to enter into force from today. They are carefully measured and can be intensified or lessened according to how developments unfold in the region. Provision is also made for a review after three months. As the situation evolves, we will discuss with our EU partners what adaptations or further measures, in the circumstances, might be necessary. We believe that these measures send a strong signal that the EU is ready to take further determined action if and when required.

Despite the clear deterioration in the security situation and the steps we have taken in response, from the outset of this crisis, Ireland has consistently stressed the need for dialogue and the importance of maintaining open channels of communication with the Russian Federation. We continue to hold that view. Given that we all agree there can be no military solution to the situation in Ukraine, we need to see serious engagement from all sides and a positive, constructive contribution to the lasting peaceful resolution to the crisis we all wish and hope to see.

As I said at the outset, the reconvening of the Seanad today is a welcome opportunity to consider two major crises confronting the international community at present, namely, the conflict in Gaza and Israel and the crisis in Ukraine. The Irish Government has worked extensively and constructively in seeking to address both conflicts on a bilateral basis with our European partners and internationally through the United Nations. I stand by those actions and I believe we have made, and continue to make, an important, distinct and worthwhile contribution. I look forward to listening to statements from Members of the Seanad and, if it is in order, to replying to them at the end of the debate.