Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)

I thank Deputy Ó Laoghaire for this pertinent question.

The Government remains deeply concerned by the devastating conflict in Sudan, which has led to the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. More than 150,000 people have been killed and some 12 million people have been forcibly displaced. The conflict continues to have a catastrophic impact on civilians. Despite reports of better access in some areas in recent months, an already dire humanitarian situation is worsening due to large-scale displacement, with millions continuing to face acute hunger and famine. Of particular concern is the devastating impact the war continues to have on women and girls.

As alluded to by the Deputy, the situation in El Fasher where the Rapid Support Forces group, known as the RSF, has been laying siege to the city for over 500 days is particularly alarming. Ireland has consistently emphasised the need to maintain humanitarian access. Both parties to the conflict are responsible for obstructing aid and conducting attacks on aid convoys, resulting in untold suffering for the civilian population.

As Minister of State with responsibility for international development and the diaspora, I signed a joint statement by 30 countries condemning an attack on a convoy in El Fasher in June, as well as the ongoing attacks against civilians and humanitarian workers across Sudan. While representing Ireland at the United Nations General Assembly, I signed an Australian-led declaration for the protection of humanitarian workers.

More generally, Ireland continues to provide substantial humanitarian assistance. We recently announced a further package of €3 million in humanitarian assistance. This brings our commitment this year to €14.3 million to support communities in Sudan and those displaced in neighbouring countries. We are gravely concerned by reports that arms continue to reach parties to the conflict, despite existing UN and EU embargoes and sanctions. Along with our EU and other like-minded partners, we have called on all external actors directly or indirectly supplying arms and funds to the parties to cease their support immediately. Progress towards the resolution of the conflict will require significant political will from the warring parties and the international community in order to find a peaceful way forward. Ireland stands ready to lend its support to these efforts.

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