Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

This is the largest and most horrific humanitarian crisis in the world right now. It is also the one that is probably spoken about least, so I particularly thank the Deputy for raising it. This country has called for an immediate cessation of the atrocities in Sudan, following the takeover of the city of El Fasher by the Rapid Support Forces. I am horrified by recent reports that the RSF has carried out large-scale, ethnically motivated atrocities, summary executions, sexual and gender-based violence and detention of civilians. These criminal acts must end. All parties to the conflict need to adhere to their commitments and obligations. They need to enable humanitarian access in line with their international humanitarian and human rights obligations. I have been working to highlight this issue, as has Ireland, at EU and international level. We have asked that it be a specific agenda item at the Foreign Affairs Council due to take place in Brussels this month. I will raise the views of the Deputy, this House and the Government on the need to do more to support the people of Sudan.

We have provided €14.3 million in humanitarian support this year to people in Sudan and refugees in neighbouring countries. Irish Aid support is making a difference on the ground but the Deputy is right to highlight this. It is not getting nearly enough attention. The level of slaughter is quite horrific. I will update the Deputy after I attend the Foreign Affairs Council.

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