Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On Ukraine and the divisions at the European Council regarding sanctions, a range of views were expressed. Some were very forthright in saying that we should move to level three sanctions quickly, while others disputed that, particularly those countries which are close to and dependent on Russia.

Ireland supports the decision of the European Council in respect of the sanctions against Russian individuals and participated in the discussion about what areas might be included in a broader economic plain, be they economic or financial. There is a recognition, however, that no matter what sanctions one imposes, they work both ways in that they will impact on all countries involved. It would be far better to have a situation where Russian understands what it has done.

Another point made was that the winners should be the people of Ukraine in acting as a buffer between the East and the West. Over €11 billion in funds is on the table from the European Union and the Commission. The point made by several speakers at the Council meeting was that the conditions that applied to many of the IMF programmes for Ukraine could be very difficult. Obviously, one needs unity on this position to secure the overall unity of Ukraine. It is not true to claim Ireland did not take a position on this matter. We have been very clear about it - we support the sanctions.

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