Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There is now the prospect of talks due to the work of a number of actors. The United States has been looking for and demanding a ceasefire in recent weeks and we need to build on that positive momentum. There is a clear signal from the Houthi side that it wants a ceasefire, and a lot of pressure is being put on the Saudi side to facilitate real and substantive talks in Sweden before the end of the year so that we can have a political solution rather than the futility and tragedy that comes from continuing military action. From an Irish perspective, we will support collective EU efforts, and indeed Swedish efforts, to provide the basis for those talks. Even if this ceasefire takes hold a significant international effort will be required to prevent a massive famine in Yemen which will cost a lot of money. The EU must be part of that solution, financially and logistically. We also want to be part of that solution. Our focus is very much on ensuring that these peace talks happen and that the humanitarian assistance required is in place. It will involve a long, expensive and difficult process to help to rebuild a country, politically and in terms of infrastructure and social regeneration. Ireland will be a strong, positive voice on this.

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