Patricia Ryan (Kildare South, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I too welcome the ambassador to the House. Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it. We are in danger of living through a very expensive lesson in history if we do not have a strong and unified approach to the latest happenings in Ukraine. My thoughts and prayers are with all Ukrainian citizens, given the recent escalated military tensions.

Russia is in breach of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 68/262 which clearly recognises the territorial integrity of Ukraine. There must be consequences. We cannot have a situation like the one that exists in Palestine, where the Government of Israel is in breach of almost 50 UN resolutions. Almost half of the country-specific resolutions have related to Israel. What is good for the goose must be good for the gander.

Ireland knows enough about the aggression of bigger states against smaller nations. It is about time the interests of smaller nations were taken seriously. Last month, our waters were to be used for war games in a "Mine is bigger than yours; what are you going to do about it?" manner. It was unreal. My colleague an Teachta Brady met the Russian ambassador to convey our views on such shenanigans. This is what real leadership looks like. All sides must work to de-escalate tension. The fishermen and fisherwomen of Ireland showed more leadership than the Government did. The Government must use diplomatic channels to ensure there is a peaceful resolution to what is a very tense situation.

I note that the EU has been very strong in respect of the repercussions for Russia. If Russia carries out military actions on Ukrainian territory, talk must be followed by action. The truth is often the first victim of any conflict. We must insist on balanced reporting that is backed up by facts and not by speculation.

Ordinary people are scared about the knock-on effects in Ireland. Indeed, I overheard two schoolchildren on the Luas the other day wondering when Russia would invade us. Many people have not even thought about how this sabre-rattling will affect fuel and food prices. We all know that fuel and food poverty have increased significantly. The Government must cancel or postpone the proposed carbon tax rises. People cannot take much more of this Government and it is time to act now.

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