Dara Murphy (Cork North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The European Council did not discuss our relations with the United States of America. It is frustrating, when we are discussing serious issues for elderly people, children and citizens generally in Ukraine and the difficulties arising for everybody in trying to de-escalate the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, to repeatedly hear about every other alleged improper act by other countries.

In regard to countries on the European Continent that share the ambition to be part of the European Union, it is in Ireland's interest that their borders, their integrity and their democracies are protected and assisted in being protected. As Deputy Wallace pointed out, we are a neutral country and have always said we do not believe there can be a military solution to the problem in eastern Ukraine. That said, the EU has significant economic tools at its disposal as a family of nations to ensure that the rule of law and the democratic rights and ambitions of the people of Ukraine are protected. We will continue to play our part in that.

In respect of Shannon, the Deputy will be aware that for almost 50 years the arrangements relating to the use of Shannon Airport have been in place and do not form any part of a military alliance. The arrangements are governed by strict conditions which are employed to ensure compatibility with our traditional approach of military neutrality, which involves non-participation in military alliances. As I have said here previously, as a family of 28 member states, and notwithstanding our neutrality, the position regarding Ukraine is different. The EU must be more engaged with crises and conflicts that take place on our borders, because these impact our partner member states that border with Russia and other accession countries and eastern partners. Therefore, the Government fully supports the unified approach we have seen to date.

That is not to say we feel there is not potential for reform regarding actions in Ukraine, whether structural or economic. The EU is working with Ukraine and I have attended meetings where reform and supports are encouraged. Indeed, Ireland and the EU have given significant financial aid to date. I believe it is unhelpful to try to muddy the waters by suggesting some excuse or rationale whereby there can be some blurring regarding who is the aggressor and who is the victim in this instance. It is the shared view of the EU that Ukraine and the Ukrainian people are the victims and that as a smaller state, they need and will get the protection of the EU.

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