Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 5 November 2024

Select Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Defence

Estimates for Public Services 2024
Vote 28 - Foreign Affairs (Supplementary)

3:45 pm

Photo of Charles FlanaganCharles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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I have one brief question on the ongoing unacceptable and horrific situation in Ukraine. I noted the Tánaiste's comments on increased funding through the European Peace Facility and otherwise. What is the possibility of further initiatives of a practical nature on a bilateral basis with European governments? In recent times, there was reconstruction and now rebuilding of a school playground that was done by the Government in conjunction with the Lithuanian Government. The local community involved was very much informed of the fact that this was bilateral engagement.

Acknowledgement came from a small town in Ukraine to the Government of Ireland and the Irish people. I felt that this was an important initiative, one with practical and positive consequences in terms of a recognition by communities in Ukraine of what Ireland was doing as regards their compatriots who had been displaced. It was also a practical manifestation of our not insubstantial aid. Are there further opportunities or flexibilities in that regard such that we might be in a position to sign up with other governments in, for example, the rebuilding of community halls or public libraries or the provision of particular equipment and the help of the Irish people, through the Irish Government, is recognised at a local and practical level in Ukraine?