Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Ukrainian ambassador, Gerasko Larysa, and all the Ukrainian people here today. I wish to extend a very warm, special welcome and céad míle fáilte to Misha, the ten-year-old boy who is now a fluent gaeilgeoir after a very short two years and who plays the bosca ceoil. I welcome his sister, Varvara, his mum Hanna and her partner from Ballyferriter in west Kerry, Dónal Ó Catháin. It is an absolutely tremendous story and it shows the way the Irish people and the Ukrainian people have interacted. It is a credit to our schools and teachers and our Government to be fair about it.

As we mark the third anniversary of the tragic war on Ukraine, it is important to reflect not only on the suffering and hardship endured by the Ukrainian people but also on Ireland's response to the refugee crisis. Ireland can be proud of our Government's and our people's efforts to provide sanctuary to the displaced citizens of Ukraine. We have extended a welcome and have provided homes to those who have lost everything. In this time of crisis, we have stepped up. While we face challenges accommodating large numbers of people in need, managing our resources and updating our facilities, we have learned and adapted. Ireland's response remains grounded in humanity. I urge us all to continue to treat these refugees with compassion, despite the voices of doubt and division that surround us. However, there are still areas that need urgent attention, and our healthcare, transport, and housing services are under immense pressure. These vital services, essential to the well-being of both refugees and our own citizens, must be supported, expanded and improved. Investing in these areas is an investment in our future, a future where everyone regardless of their background has access to the opportunities and services they need to thrive.

I want also to highlight the experience of one of our local communities, which reflects the broader picture of what we face. The people of a town in Kerry in March 2022 welcomed 50 Ukrainian pupils into their schools, increasing their student population by 50% overnight. This was a significant challenge to their teachers, staff, students and the entire community, yet through immense efforts, goodwill and unwavering community support, they made it a success. These families have become part of Cahersiveen town, building relationships, overcoming the language barrier, securing employment, joining the local GAA teams and contributing to the fabric of society there. Now, however, these same families are being informed through sudden emails that they must relocate, often with little or no notice and usually just before a bank holiday weekend, it must be said.

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