Violet-Anne Wynne (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I also want to acknowledge the presence of the Ukrainian ambassador, H.E. Larysa Gerasko, and I hope I pronounced her name correctly.

Two years ago, the world was rocked and peace was destabilised. People fled for their lives and some were buried in rubble. There was so much needless suffering and pain. I take the opportunity to express my deepest sympathies to those who have lost loved ones and family members. The best of humanity was shown in this country when we threw open our doors and this House came together to show strength and push back against evil. We did that because it was the right thing to do. The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good people to do nothing, and history has taught us that. That goes for Ukraine but also for Gaza, and my heart goes out to all of the innocents caught in the middle there.

The people of Clare opened their hearts and homes to Ukrainians. I meet them working in the local area, at the school gates, and when I visit communities all across County Clare. I acknowledge the fantastic work of the SICAP team in the Clare Local Development Company, the Clare Public Participation Network, Orla Ní hÉilí and the Clare Immigrant Support Centre, Jason Murphy and the Ukrainian services directorate in Clare County Council, Fáilte Isteach, our family resource centres in Ennis, Shannon, Kilrush, Ennistymon and Killaloe, the Clare Sports Partnership, the ETB and Lisdoonvarna Fáilte. I think I got everybody in there. The best of humanity shines when the chips are down, and I am proud of the organisations, communities and families across Clare who extended the hand of welcome to our Ukrainian friends.

It is terrible that we are here today marking the second anniversary.

I also condemn the invasion of Ukraine and I wish, along with every Member of this House, that day comes when this situation comes to an end and peace is restored.

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