Catherine Callaghan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That is very welcome news. I thank the Minister of State. It is very clear to see then that the allocation of the extra €100 million is having a significant impact and providing vital support for Ukraine as it continues to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity, support that, as the Minister of State himself says, is needed now more than ever as Ukraine continues to defend itself against the continuing attacks and to be in a position of strength for ongoing negotiations. It is vital that we in Ireland, together with our European partners, play our part in supporting Ukraine as it continues its defence against Russia. The Minister of State mentioned the €250 million, the initial allocation we had pledged, but it is being blocked by Hungary. What can be done, and what is being done, to ensure that money, that aid, gets to Ukraine? As the Minister of State says, the €100 million is very welcome, but the €250 million would be more than twice as welcome.

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