Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I attended a meeting of the European Council on Thursday, 15 December in Brussels. The agenda covered Ukraine, energy and economic issues, security and defence and external relations issues. In his contribution to the debate, the Minister of State, Deputy Burke, will provide further detail on discussions on European Union enlargement and outline the priorities of the Swedish Presidency of the EU, which commenced on 1 January. I will address all other issues.

Before turning to the European Council, I would like to take the opportunity to update the House on my participation at the EU-Association of Southeast Asian States, ASEAN, summit on 14 December 2022 in Brussels. This event marked 45 years of diplomatic relations between the two regions. The summit was co-chaired by the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, and the 2022 ASEAN chair, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. The summit was an opportunity for European Union and ASEAN leaders to reaffirm our partnership as one based on shared values and principles, such as support for the rules-based international order, respect of territorial integrity, and effective and sustainable multilateralism. Our two regional integration organisations became strategic partners in 2020. The broad agenda for the summit reflected the breadth of that growing partnership and included peace and security, connectivity and digital transition, clean and just energy transition, economic co-operation and trade, sustainable development, climate change and energy, the Covid-19 pandemic and regional and international issues.

We welcomed the signing of the EU-ASEAN comprehensive air transport agreement, the first ever region-to-region aviation agreement. We also welcomed the EU-ASEAN plan of action 2023-2027, which will see co-operation over the coming period on pandemic recovery, sustainable trade, rules-based and sustainable connectivity, promoting decent work, disaster preparedness and security co-operation.

I will now turn to the agenda of the December European Council. At the European Council, EU leaders condemned the despicable and indiscriminate missile and drone attacks against civilians across Ukraine. These attacks are having a devastating impact on Ukraine’s energy and other critical civilian infrastructure and their sole aim is to terrorise the Ukrainian population. In particular, these attacks are exacerbating an already critical humanitarian situation in Ukraine, in the midst of winter. Despite this, the people of Ukraine remain strong, resolute and determined that Russia will not win its war of aggression. Last December, Ireland contributed a further €25 million in budget support to the government of Ukraine to assist in dealing with expenditure, including over the winter, and to support SMEs. This funding has been made via the World Bank Trust Fund and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. We will continue this steadfast support of Ukraine for as long as it takes.

Ireland has also consistently supported imposing sanctions in response to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. At the European Council, leaders discussed how to increase our collective pressure on Russia and we underlined the importance of ensuring effective implementation, and preventing circumvention, of sanctions. Additionally, leaders noted the EU’s agreement to provide a macro-financial assistance package of €18 billion for Ukraine. I am pleased that the first instalment of €3 billion was made subsequently on 17 January. This package comes on top of the €6.7 billion in macro-financial assistance, which has been disbursed since Russia’s February 2022 invasion.

Leaders are also committed to promoting accountability for violations of international law arising out of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Ireland is supportive of the idea of establishing a special tribunal to prosecute the crime of aggression. However, there are a number of significant political, legal and practical challenges, including the immunity of senior Russian officials under international law, that need to be resolved for the idea to be realised. We need to identify options that would allow us to overcome them to ensure the effectiveness, legitimacy and credibility of any such tribunal.

On the prospects for peace, the European Council reiterated that it is ready to support Ukraine’s initiative for a just peace. While the conditions do not currently exist for peace negotiations, when the Taoiseach spoke by phone with President Zelenskyy on 10 January, and when I spoke by phone with the Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba on 13 January, we conveyed the clear message that it is up to Ukraine to determine the terms, conditions and time line for any peace agreement. We are continuing to reflect on how Ireland might best contribute to the objectives of the plan; we are already involved in many of the areas it covers, including food security, accountability and nuclear safety.

On energy, at the December European Council, we reviewed progress on the implementation of the measures in the October Council conclusions aimed at bringing improved co-ordination, stability, and predictability to the energy market. We emphasised the importance of phasing out EU dependence on Russian fossil fuels through stepping-up investment in innovation, infrastructure and interconnections, renewable energy, and energy efficiency projects. We underlined the importance of strengthening co-ordination and agreed that work should continue on: the speedy operationalisation joint purchasing, as well as an acceleration of discussions with reliable partners to secure long-term supply contracts; the efficient filling of gas storage facilities and the close monitoring gas demand reduction objectives; and the early preparation of contingency plans for winter 2023-24.

We invited the Commission to speed up work on the structural reform of the EU’s electricity market, which is intended to make the market fully fit for a decarbonised energy system and facilitate the uptake of renewable energy. We agreed that the ongoing energy crisis endangers the EU’s economic, industrial and technological base, requiring an ambitious European industrial policy to make Europe’s economy fit for the green and digital transitions and reduce strategic dependencies.

The special meeting of the European Council on 9 and 10 February will return to economic issues. This follows our agreement in December on the need for a co-ordinated response to enhance Europe’s economic resilience and its global competitiveness while preserving the integrity of the Single Market.

The Commission has been invited to conduct an analysis and to make proposals with a view to mobilising all relevant national and EU tools as well as to improving framework conditions for investment, including through streamlined administrative procedures. Work of the joint EU-US task force on the US Inflation Reduction Act is also ongoing. Europe needs a positive working relationship with the United States on the green transition; one that strengthens the transatlantic relationship, upholds the multilateral system, and builds an open, thriving marketplace for our innovators and investors. We need to avoid going down the road of a subsidy race when we face so many common challenges.

The December European Council also invited the European Commission to present, in early 2023, a strategy at EU level to boost competitiveness and productivity. The growth and innovation gap between Europe and its global competitors requires our focus.

In December, the Council took stock of the current security situation in Europe. In this light, leaders agreed to move forward to advance common procurement and joint investment strategies at an EU level. This is important in the wake of the war in Ukraine, which has put pressure on military inventories across Europe, as countries seek to assist Ukraine in its self-defence. Common procurement and capability development also have the potential to be valuable for smaller member states such as Ireland, given that we are currently embarking on an ambitious programme of investment in our Defence Forces.

The Council also took further steps to build a more secure cyberspace, with leaders supporting the creation of an EU policy on cyber defence, to be developed further over the coming months. In addition, it called for the swift implementation of the EU hybrid toolbox, with a view to countering hybrid threats and foreign interference and manipulation of information.

Importantly, the Council endorsed the political decision to increase the overall financial ceiling of the European peace facility by €2 billion. The decision sends an important signal of support to Ukraine and other partners, including in Africa, that the EU stands ready to fulfil our commitments around the globe.

In addition to a strategic discussion on transatlantic relations, which I have addressed, leaders had a strategic exchange on relations with the Southern Neighbourhood, which includes ten partner countries: Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Palestine, Syria and Tunisia. I informed leaders of the tragic death of Private Sean Rooney in Lebanon and leaders expressed their condolences.

The European Council also discussed the situation in Iran, calling on the Iranian authorities to immediately end the use of the death penalty and to cease the unjustifiable use of force against peaceful protesters, particularly targeted at and against women.

The Taoiseach will travel to Brussels on 9 and 10 February for a special meeting of the European Council when leaders will again discuss developments in Ukraine, economic issues and migration.

Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
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We are approaching the first anniversary of Vladimir Putin's barbaric and illegal invasion of Ukraine. It is important that we once again extend our solidarity to all of those fleeing the horrendous bloodshed. Everything that can be done must be done to bring to an end this cruel and senseless war. As a neutral country, we can play a unique role in advocating for peace and dialogue to end this war.

I hope we will use our voice wisely, powerfully and consistently. It is important to impress upon European leaders the need for an escalation of talks, not of hostilities. While the initiative for a just peace sounds welcome, I have to express my alarm and concern that this war might prove to be a boon and win for the armaments industry and a humanitarian catastrophe for the people of Ukraine.

I also have to put it to the Tánaiste that blood has been spilled again in Palestine. We see Israeli aggression, Palestinian reprisal and innocent lives lost in Jenin refugee camp, in Gaza and in synagogues. This is the pattern under what is a right-wing hawkish Government. Whereas the commitment to accountability under the rule of international law and moves to punish the crime of aggression are very welcome, equally, crimes of occupation and the crime of apartheid on Israel's part need to be called out. I am extremely concerned that tensions and aggression are again building. I am concerned at the increasing illegal annexation, illegal settlements, threats of more to come, and the targeting of refugee populations. There is a clear mismatch between the insistence - correctly - on adherence to the rule of law when it comes to Ukraine and the criminal behaviour of Vladimir Putin and yet there is no equivalent standard, reckoning or accountability when it comes to Palestine and the state of Israel, which still enjoys a special partnership and relationship with the European Union. That is wrong.

For the sake of justice in Palestine but also in the interests of wider world order and commitment to the rule of law, multilateralism and a safe and secure world, Israel needs to be called out. The time for equivocating is over and the exceptionalism being applied to Israel has to stop. I put it to the Tánaiste, as Minister for Foreign Affairs, and to his colleagues in government, that Ireland now needs to step up. We need to step up if we are to have any hope of breaking this cycle in the Middle East or ending the endless war of attrition and the endless targeting of refugee populations and dispossessed people on their own land. We have no excuse as Irish people. We know what that is. I want the Tánaiste, as the Minister responsible, and his Government, to act on that and to do so without further delay. They should apply the same correct standards as apply to Ukraine and Putin. That standard too must hold for Palestine and for Israel to end the occupation and the system of apartheid there.

John Brady (Wicklow, Sinn Fein)
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As we approach the first anniversary of the illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24 February, when war once again became an instrument of policy in Europe, I reiterate my commitment and support for the territorial integrity of Ukraine and national self-determination of the Ukrainian people. Ireland must continue to offer its support to the Ukrainian people. The need for humanitarian assistance has never been greater, particularly as Russian forces continue to deliberately target civilians and civilian infrastructure. The UN has recorded casualty figures close to 20,000, including almost 7,000 civilians butchered, although it believes the real figures are much higher. Some 8 million Ukrainians have fled the country in search of safety right across Europe, while 6 million more have been internally displaced and close to 18 million people remain in need of humanitarian aid in Ukraine. Russia is deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure. In some regions as many as half the healthcare facilities have been destroyed. Millions of children have been impacted through the destruction of schools.

I re-emphasise my support for the work and investigations being undertaken by the investigator of the International Criminal Court. This is a conflict in which there have been countless documented instances of murder, torture and sexual assault of civilians. The continuing illegal transfer of Ukrainian civilians, including children, from Ukraine to Russia must be stopped. The importance of accountability and bringing to justice the perpetrators of these war crimes cannot be overstated. Every possible support must be offered to the investigators of the International Criminal Court and the continuation of the UN Black Sea grain initiative must also receive the complete support of the EU. Millions of tonnes of foodstuffs have been moved under this initiative to some 43 countries, many of which are enduring incredible suffering due to food shortages, climate change and regional instability exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine. It is imperative that access to food sources for suffering states is maintained to prevent further food insecurity and that prices are controlled to prevent spiralling costs.

I welcome comments made by the Tánaiste regarding the need for the EU to seek compensation for the habitual destruction of EU-sponsored structures by Israeli forces, including many structures and properties funded by the Irish taxpayer. It is important that the Tánaiste's words are not left to linger. He and the Government must follow up immediately with tangible action. It is long past time that Israel was treated the same as any other state that disregards international law so readily. Since the election of the most right-wing government in the history of Israel, violence has escalated. Tragically, extreme elements of that government are seeking to take advantage of recent tragedies to introduce even more punitive measures against Palestinians, while ignoring the violence of illegal Israeli settlers and military forces. Israel's security approach of mass raids, collective punishments and targeted killings is turning both Palestinian territories and Israel into a human rights cesspit.

A little over a week ago, 100,000 Israelis marched in protest at attempts by the new government to weaken the judiciary and exert more control over the supreme court. The Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has promised his right-wing allies in government that he will annex the West Bank and restrict the Palestinian Authority, effectively imposing sanctions on Palestinian leaders. The list goes on. The question remains: what is the EU going to do to protect the rights of Palestinians? The continuing failure to act undermines the moral authority of both Ireland and the EU. We need the same political impetus and will as witnessed in Ukraine to be applied to investigations of war crimes in Palestine and other countries. Human rights must be implemented universally. They are not a pick-and-mix that one can pick and choose from. They need to be implemented universally and all perpetrators of war crimes and crimes against humanity must be held to account. It is long past time that the EU and this State acted. I call on the Tánaiste, as Minister for Foreign Affairs, to act immediately.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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I will try to gallop though the broad list of issues that arose at the European Council meeting in the five minutes I have. Needless to say, Ukraine is the fist issue. It has been the dominant issue at all European Council meetings since the barbaric invasion of Ukraine and the ongoing assault on the Ukrainian people by Russia. We need to take stock constantly of what we are doing to support Ukraine. We will not be supplying military capacity to Ukraine but one of the issues covered in the Council meeting was the provision of critical infrastructure support.

Perhaps in his response, the Minister of State, Deputy Burke, will tell us exactly what Ireland will be providing. The Council has asked for such things as mobile heating stations, power generators, power transformers and high-voltage lighting equipment. These are the sorts of humanitarian and community supports we can provide. Are we doing so? The Minister of State might set out exactly what we are doing.

The Council also asked member states to intensify contingency planning for displaced persons. We hoped towards the end of last year that the dreadful onslaught against the civilian population had abated but it has intensified. Infrastructure critical to the provision of power, heat and light, as well as hospitals and schools, are being demolished by the ongoing unjustified and unconscionable attacks by Russia. We need to be able to provide for people who are displaced in that context. An EU-wide position must be clearly set out. I hope that is happening.

In respect of accountability for war crimes and support for the International Criminal Court, the Tánaiste talked about a special war crimes tribunal. It was suggested that Russian assets that have been frozen internationally may be deployed in the rebuilding of Ukraine. How close are we to achieving that? How legal is it? Where are we in that respect? It has been talked about for a long time.

Energy policy was another major topic of the Council meeting. There has been talk of finalising a new Council regulation enhancing solidarity. How will that impact Ireland? We have limited gas interconnection. Our gas interconnectors are with the United Kingdom, which obviously is not an EU member state. The issue of gas storage has also been urged upon us. There is limited capacity for gas storage in Ireland. These are common European objectives. How are they to be fulfilled in Ireland?

In respect of security and defence, the Council determined in its conclusion that the EU will take on much more responsibility for its own security. The Council has called on the Commission to present a proposal for a European defence investment programme. Where does that leave us? There is a feeling that a European defence structure is being created by stealth. In fact, it is not a matter of stealth for the many countries that advocate for and want such a structure. We seem to be going along with it in an unstructured way.

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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To what is the Deputy referring?

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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I am talking about a common European defence infrastructure. When are we going to initiate the debate on exactly what our role will be in the EU's strong policy to take responsibility for its own security and cybersecurity?

I also raise the issue of the US Inflation Reduction Act, which has the unfortunate acronym IRA. It has been described by many as a serious threat to European competitiveness. I looked at the statistics relating to the relaxation of state aid rules from March 2022. Overwhelmingly, the greatest state aid came in two states, namely, Germany and France. That is distorting competition within our Single Market. We need to have a clear policy to ensure our competitiveness is not reduced because of the ability of some states to massively support their own industry.

I also raise the southern neighbourhood and Palestine. I am more profoundly concerned about the situation in Palestine than I have ever been. The government of Benjamin Netanyahu is going to be shocking in what it does. Mr. Netanyahu was bad the last time and it will be worse this time. The two-state solution seems to be disappearing. It is now an objective only sometimes to be talked about. We do not have time to do it now but perhaps we could have a debate on that matter in the House to allow us all to bring our collective thoughts to bear on what is a potential point of conflagration in the Middle East.

Seán Haughey (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail)
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As everybody knows, 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of our membership of the EU. It is generally accepted that our membership has been transformative for us. It is entirely appropriate that we now take time to reflect on the past 50 years and to discuss how the EU should develop in the future. The Joint Committee on European Affairs has decided to have a series of engagements with key stakeholders in respect of our EU membership, finishing up on Europe Day in May. This will be a useful and worthwhile exercise.

Others have already spoken of the situation in Palestine. Sadly, there has been an escalation of violence in the Middle East in recent days. Tensions are running high in the region. Last Thursday, seven Palestinians were killed by Israeli troops in a raid in the West Bank town of Jenin. Palestinians retaliated by firing rockets from Gaza into Israel. There was then a shooting at a synagogue in east Jerusalem that resulted in the death of seven Israelis. That was followed by other attacks on civilians in Jerusalem and the tit-for-tat killings continue. I condemn all these acts of violence. A renewed effort is needed to restore peace in the region and to bring about a long-term political solution to the conflict. The composition of the new government in Israel, led by Benjamin Netanyahu, and his actions since becoming Prime Minister, do not give much hope for the future.

Last week, the Tánaiste, who is with us in the Chamber, attended the Foreign Affairs Council of the EU, at which a presentation was made by the Palestinian Prime Minister. The US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, is in the region at the moment, meeting with the political leaders on both sides. The situation is becoming increasingly hopeless. Israel is committed to prioritising, advancing and developing settlements in the Palestinian West Bank, including the validation of illegally built outposts and further annexation of territory. This ongoing establishment and expansion is contrary to international law. Of particular concern is the displacement which is taking place in the Khan al-Ahmar region of area E. It is now clear that Israel is by any definition engaging in apartheid on the Palestinian people through its laws, policies and practices. Numerous reports have found this to be the case, including the report by the UN special rapporteur on human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, Professor Michael Lynk. Regrettably, these development diminish the chance of achieving a just and lasting two-state solution. The time has come for the international community to recognise that and to take appropriate measures in response. Unfortunately, there does not appear to be the political will to do it. I welcome the position taken by Ireland at a meeting of the UN Security Council on 19 December 2022, when, with a number of other states, we demanded that Israel immediately and completely ends all settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, and fully respects all its legal obligations in the region. In that context, Ireland too must continue its support to have these illegal occupations pursued by the United Nations through the International Court of Justice. The EU and the US need to do more generally in this regard. For political and historical reasons, as well as for reasons of international trade, many states are not prepared to do anything about these developments. They turn a blind eye. That is why it is so important for Ireland to continue to call out these developments and to demand appropriate action. It is also time for Ireland to recognise the state of Palestine, which is in the programme for Government. It seems to me there is never a right time to do so. Why not just get on and do it?

I understand that the issue of migration will be discussed at the next European Council meeting. Ireland, like many other EU states, is experiencing an influx of large numbers of international protection applicants and Ukrainian beneficiaries of temporary protection, resulting in accommodation shortages. Such a crisis has not been seen in the EU since 2015 or 2016. The issue is now on the EU agenda again and is being considered by EU justice ministers.

It is certainly a divisive issue. The EU's new pact on migration and asylum was first published in September 2020. It needs to be finalised as soon as possible. The Dublin regulation needs to be revisited and questions concerning persons arriving from known safe countries need to be addressed.

In regard to Ukraine, 24 February next marks the first anniversary of Russia’s illegal, immoral and unjustified invasion of Ukraine. Russia was expected to take control of the country in a matter of weeks, if not days. This did not happen. We are all in awe of the bravery of the Ukrainian fight-back. Russian atrocities continue. More than 40 civilians, including children, were killed in a bombing on an apartment block in Dnipro. Russia has also threatened to use nuclear weapons in the conflict. Many states have supported Ukraine in a number of ways, by supplying weapons and military advice, giving financial aid to rebuild infrastructure, providing humanitarian aid and welcoming more than 8 million refugees on the move. Each state helps in accordance with its foreign policy and military traditions. The EU must stay the course on this. The strong solidarity displayed to date must endure.

In regard to recent developments in the European Parliament, this coming Thursday the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, will address both Houses of the Oireachtas. For the sake of democracy in Europe and the whole European project, it will be of crucial importance that the European Parliament deals effectively with recent revelations about bribery and illicit lobbying activities on behalf of Qatari interests. There have also been reports about the interests of Morocco being advanced in this inappropriate way. Has this influenced the change in approach by some EU states as regards a political solution for Western Sahara, which has led to an increase in support for the so-called Moroccan autonomy plan? One would have to wonder about all of that.

I will say a few words on the restoration of the political institutions established under the Belfast Good Friday Agreement. As we know, this is linked to the negotiations between the EU and the UK on the implementation of the Northern Ireland protocol due to the actions of the DUP. With the appointment of Rishi Sunak as British Prime Minister, the mood music has become more positive. Agreement has been reached on the EU’s access to the UK’s customs and IT systems. That is a good thing. It was reported in early January that the Taoiseach had admitted that mistakes were made on all sides in the handling of Brexit and that the post-Brexit protocol could be too strict. Previously, a British Minister of State for Northern Ireland, Steve Baker, made an apology for the way Brexit was dealt with by the UK. The relationship between Britain and Ireland has been reset with the appointment of Rishi Sunak as Prime Minister. I earnestly hope that an agreed solution by all sides can be negotiated in the coming weeks as we approach the 25th anniversary of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement.

Mairead Farrell (Galway West, Sinn Fein)
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The Jenin refugee camp is home to more than 22,000 Palestinians. These refugees were expelled from their original homes in 1948 during the Nakba. Last week, the Jenin refugee camp was subject to another attack which has been described as a massacre. Ten residents, including two young children, were murdered. The Israeli attack was reminiscent of a previous large-scale assault on Jenin in 2002 when Israeli undercover forces dressed as civilians entered the camp in private vehicles with Palestinian number plates and proceeded to kill more than 50 Palestinians over the space of 13 days. During last week’s raid, Israeli forces in a military vehicle drove into the camp and proceeded to kill ten people, with one of the children who was killed having been run over. We know the Israelis have form in this, as the late Rachel Corrie was also killed in this manner. However, that this would happen to a small child is an imaginable horror. After unleashing the attack, the Israeli forces proceeded to shoot at ambulances so that they were prevented from treating the wounded. They fired tear-gas towards the Jenin public hospital, which then seeped into the children’s ward. A fortnight ago, the President of the European Commission, President von der Leyen, said it was imperative that we maintain the positive momentum of EU-Israeli relations. I ask the Tánaiste whether he raised these horrors at the European Council meeting. If not, will he ensure he raises them at the next meeting?

Rose Conway-Walsh (Mayo, Sinn Fein)
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At the European Council meeting the Tánaiste discussed economic resilience. That requires investing in infrastructure. Why has the Government not included the western rail corridor project in the EU TEN-T? Only projects included in the TEN-T list of projects have access to the Connecting Europe Facility, known as the CEF fund. It is up to each country to lay out its priorities for rail, road, ports and so forth and submit them to the EU. There are two lists on this issue, the core list of projects to be completed by 2030 and then the broader list to be completed by 2050. In December 2021, the European Commission published its proposals for a revised TEN-T regulation. In this proposal the map of the TEN-T network in Ireland remains largely unchanged and the core network does not include the west. This means that transport projects in the west will have limited access to EU funding, particularly in the short term. Sinn Féin recently received confirmation that the Department will not even consider including the western rail corridor on the TEN-T network map until the all-island strategic rail review is completed. To the people of Mayo and throughout the west, this looks like a tactic to delay and frustrate, especially when projects in the greater Dublin area do not seem to need to wait for this review. Will the Minister ensure the western rail corridor is added to a core project list and is eligible for core funding? We cannot have the European Research Group, ERG, and the DUP holding up a project such as the western rail corridor. We cannot have the Government hiding behind that as an excuse not to invest in rural Ireland and not to deliver the vital infrastructure that is the western rail corridor.

Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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I thank the Social Democrats for allowing me to use its slot. I am on record repeatedly condemning the illegal invasion of Ukraine by Russia. I am not going to repeat that condemnation, which is without reservation. However, I will use the few minutes available to me to express my extreme concern that the situation in Ukraine is being used to fuel dialogue that is undermining our neutrality. This has been denied by the Tánaiste, who has unfortunately left the Chamber, and the Taoiseach, and vice versawhen the roles were reversed. I have the most serious concerns about neutrality and how we are losing it incrementally.

Deputy Howlin said in a slightly different context that we must constantly take stock. My colleagues and I have a duty to take stock constantly of what neutrality means. That is an active policy. It does not mean standing idly by. It means positive action in promoting peace in the world. I am aghast that the voices are more and more for an all-out war between Ukraine and Russia, leading to an all-out third world war. We cannot raise our voices often enough to say this is utter, sheer madness. As a woman, female Deputy and mother, I cannot believe what we are allowing to happen in our name.

The policy of neutrality has served us very well. It has earned us respect throughout the world. Indeed, it earned us a seat on the UN Security Council. That term has now finished. We are failing to use that respect and the trust that people have in us to be a voice for peace. I am seriously concerned that the constant narrative from the Government, speakers from Government parties and various journalists is that we must speak with one voice and have consensus.

That is the last thing we need in regard to what is happening in Ukraine. We need to be a voice for peace. We need to lift our voices to say that we have to stop this war, it is sheer madness and it will lead only to utter destruction.

In the context of our neutrality, I pay tribute to the courageous people who have kept up a campaign in all sorts of weather down in Shannon, at great cost to themselves. Ed Horgan and Dan Dowling were recently found guilty of trespass at Shannon Airport and ordered to pay €5,000 each, notably to the Clare Haven Refuge for women in County Clare. What is interesting is that the Circuit Court acquitted them of criminal damage charges after they allegedly damaged a US naval aircraft. The judge went on to praise both for their outstanding character, composure and dignity. She emphasised that the €5,000 was not a fine but a financial gesture, and they were ordered to keep the peace. Significantly, Ed Horgan’s comment afterwards was:

We won’t be celebrating today. We will be commemorating all the children killed in the Middle East – up to 1 million children – and unfortunately still being killed as we speak.

I imagine he would say the same about the children and people being killed in Ukraine, and the Russian soldiers as well.

This is about using our voice. I cannot repeat it often enough in my five minutes. I want to hear this. The Government is not speaking for us when it is joining with the big boys. It is not speaking for us when it does not criticise the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. It is worth repeating what he said when addressing Federica Mogherini, the former holder of the post. He stated:

Bruges is a good example of the European garden. Yes, Europe is a garden. We have built a garden. Everything works. It is the best combination of political freedom [and so on]...

He goes on to tell us:

The rest of the world – and you know this very well, Federica – is not exactly a garden.

In case we have any illusions, he tells us that the world outside of Europe is “a jungle”. That is the man who is High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. When he was asked to take that back, he made it worse and emphasised that everything outside is a jungle.

I am absolutely pro-European and a committed European. I abhor the military-industrial complex. I abhor what Europe is doing in our name and the outsourcing of the refugee problem. Here in Ireland, we now have a two-tier system. I do not know how anyone in this House could stand over a two-tier system of higher protection for people fleeing from the Ukraine war and lesser protection for the others. We are an absolute disgrace to stand over that two-tier system.

Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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We return to the Government side. I call Deputy James O'Connor.

James O'Connor (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
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I congratulate the Minister of State, Deputy Peter Burke, on his appointment and wish him well in that role. No doubt, it is going to be one with plenty of travel and I know he will do his very best for us.

In regard to the latest European Council summit, a number of important points were made. There was particular reference to the passing of Private Seán Rooney following his very sad death in Lebanon. I pay tribute to both him and Trooper Shane Kearney, who comes from my home parish where I am well acquainted with the family. It is good to see that he is making a recovery. Our thoughts are with them and the Kearney family, their relations and friends in east Cork, Killeagh in particular, and also Trooper Kearney's comrades in the Defence Forces. What happened came as a huge shock to us. If there is anything positive, it is that he is in good condition. It was very sad about the loss of his colleague and we remember him today in the Dáil.

Not everybody is going to agree with what I have to say but I must ask what the price of freedom is. I heard some of the rhetoric in this House today regarding the war in Ukraine. I respect that we are neutral country but it is not Ireland's decision and Ireland does not have the capacity to try to stop the conflict that is going on there. While we do have a voice on whether these hostilities come to an end, let us be realistic. It is up to Russia to do that. There seems to be no acknowledgement of that from some of the speakers who come in here complaining about Ireland's stance on neutrality. Effectively, the conflict will drag on and on until Ukraine can either defeat Russia, or Russia manages to do the opposite, which, of course, none of us here would like to see. This is a country that knows how difficult it is to obtain independence, to maintain it and to build a successful nation, which we have done for the past century. It is important that we acknowledge there has to be some level of protection of that. Something that is often lost in this House by some figures in the Opposition is that we have to do some work to try to protect that at the level of defence.

I understand a significant proportion of the European Council meeting was spent discussing defence spending and issues pertaining to the conflict in Ukraine. Unfortunately, in this country, we currently have two naval vessels tied up because we are unable to crew them. A message I would like to bring to the Government is that we need to get our own act in order. Unfortunately, I am hearing from people in the Defence Forces living in my constituency that they are continuing to struggle when it comes to pay and conditions. Another issue that is heavily affecting the Defence Forces is that in Cork in particular, where the main naval base and home station is located at Haulbowline, there is huge demand for people who are skilled operators of ships, for example, marine engineers and people who are able to service the ships while on deployment. They are not staying in the Defence Forces due to the pay and conditions and because there are better alternatives for them in the area of Cork county and city. Pharmaceutical plants and medical device companies are crying out for these people because they are very well trained, respected and educated in their roles, and very passionate in the work they do.

The State needs to get serious about this. We are getting to a critical point where it is not going to be effective to maintain the Defence Forces that we have. We cannot afford to go backwards but this issue is being neglected, as it has been for a very long time. We have seen a gradual decline in the level of active personnel in the Defence Forces and it is also spilling over into other facets of the State, whether the Garda or other areas. I do not think we are being serious enough about this. We need to tackle the problem.

Another issue that has to be dealt with at European level, which I encourage the Minister of State to bring back to the Taoiseach, is that there needs to be much more discussion about financial relief, particularly for smaller businesses, not just here in Ireland but across Europe. European funding needs to be secured. We saw the great deal of success with which we managed to protect vulnerable businesses and industries throughout the pandemic, while economies across the Continent were very heavily impacted. Jobs, livelihoods and businesses were protected, in particular those that we needed in order to get on with life in a post-pandemic world. What I am starting to see, unfortunately, because of the drastic increase in the price of energy, the huge increases in the cost of materials, the logistical problems that stemmed from the pandemic and the consequences of the war is that many small businesses on our main streets in towns and villages across this country, and I am sure it is happening in other countries, are packing up because they cannot afford to keep going. It is appalling that we are allowing that to go unchallenged. The Government has to bring the message back to the European Union that there should be further relief and funding for small business owners across the length and breadth of the country because they have a role to play in the day-to-day life of society.

I have always been a strong believer in this. I am a member of Fianna Fáil and I regard myself as economically centre-left. The whole area of profitability around small business is important. People need to earn and make a livelihood out of running a small business. However, given the issues they are facing when it comes to the cost of inputs because of what happened in the Ukraine war and the pandemic, it is shameful to see them struggling to the extent they are. I do not think they feel they are being heard. I bring that message back to the Minister of State, Deputy Burke.

I want to highlight some degree of concern in another area. Deputy Connolly spoke at length about neutrality. I feel that our involvement in European Union battle groups is something that deserves a little more discussion in the precincts of this House. Obviously, such a move would be a huge adaptation of our role internationally in terms of the Defence Forces co-operating with other EU member states, particularly when there is an overlap with NATO. That debate has to happen here. It has to be thorough and there needs to be a national conversation on the issue. Polling shows very clearly that people’s minds on this issue are not made up and they are not very much in favour of this happening, but the point has to be made.

I said that I want to introduce a note of reality into the debate. In the next ten to 15 years, there will be great changes between the east and the west, between autocratic governments and democratic ones. We must do what we have to do to defend our way of life. That is just the reality.

From Ireland's point of view, I would hate to see us ever getting involved in any international conflict, but we must be realistic about where we stand at the moment. We are in a very poor position, not alone in terms of getting involved, but in defending ourselves also. I wish to emphasise the latter point. Unfortunately, within the Defence Forces - the Minister of State, Deputy Peter Burke, will be aware of this - there are serious problems with the retention of staff. There are more serious problems with the lack of equipment. If we are serious about the conversation in the first place, pay and conditions must be addressed by the Government. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee about where the world is going over the next decade. It looks more uncertain than ever. The markets and the economy reflect that. Ireland must get serious about its own defence. We must try to remedy the situation we are currently experiencing which, unfortunately, is not very good.

Mark Ward (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein)
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I note that the European Council expressed its condolences to the family of the Irish soldier, Private Seán Rooney, who lost his life while on a UN operation in Lebanon. It also expressed its sympathy to Private Shane Kearney, who was injured in the incident. I offer the same condolence and sympathy to the families of both men. I did not have an opportunity to do so before today.

I am the son of a retired soldier. My da went to serve his country in Lebanon with the United Nations force. I have spoken about my father here a number of times. I am extremely proud of my dad, but if he was standing here, he would be the very first person to say that while he was honoured to serve his country abroad and to work with the United Nations in Lebanon and other places on peacekeeping duties, he went there purely for economic reasons. Such was the poor pay in the Defence Forces when I was a child that my da would have to leave for six months or more. Even when he was home, he often had to break the Army rules and work in other jobs just to feed his family, which is bizarre, in order to supplement his poor pay, put shoes on our feet and shirts on our backs. My da was doing nixers in the Army throughout his entire 25 years of service. He worked in numerous jobs: the bar trade, security or anything that would bring in an extra few bob for the family. He did not want to do it. He would much rather have served his time in the Defence Forces and then come home to his family, but more often than not, he had to go straight from his work in the Defence Forces to a second job and sometimes he had a third job.

If we fast-forward to 2023, Irish soldiers are still going abroad for economic reasons. One young soldier in my area goes abroad every six months. He has five children and he goes away to serve with the United Nations. When he is home, his pay is so bad that he must apply for family income supplement. It is scandalous for a young man who has served numerous tours of duty abroad with the United Nations and has represented the Defence Forces in some of the most volatile places in the world that his pay is so bad that when he comes home he must sign on for family income supplement. It is high time that the Government recognised the Defence Forces and paid its members properly. Platitudes alone will not put food on the table.

There is also a problem with retaining highly trained Defence Force personnel, who are leaving in their droves. Over the years I have known a number of people who were in the Air Corps. They do not want to leave but they have had to leave because their pay and conditions were so poor that they sought out employment in private companies, which headhunts them. The training is so good and is of such a high standard that we must do everything possible to retain staff in the Defence Forces. They do not want to go to other companies or to work privately. They want to serve their country, but because of the current pay and conditions they are unable to do so.

Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, RISE)
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There was an important meeting between the EU and NATO in January and an EU-NATO co-operation agreement was signed on 10 January. One of the crucial points within it is as follows:

NATO remains the foundation of collective defence for its Allies and essential for Euro Atlantic security. We recognise the value of a stronger and more capable European defence that contributes positively to global and transatlantic security and is complementary to, and interoperable with NATO.

In other words, Europe should invest more in building bigger armies, but only to support the US-led alliance of NATO. One of the outcomes of the horrific Russian invasion of Ukraine has been the strengthening of the position of US imperialism, developing a clear hegemony over the process of European militarisation. That is part and parcel of an incredibly rapid process of militarisation taking place across the western world at this point in time. Sweden and Finland, two formerly neutral countries, have applied to join NATO and only Turkey's half-way opposition has delayed it until now. We have massive expansion of military budgets in Germany and in lots of other countries across Europe. We have the largest weapons transfer in history from western powers to Ukraine. In Ireland, one of two remaining formerly supposed neutral countries in the European Union, there has been a significant drive to abandon neutrality, to send troops to train Ukrainian soldiers alongside other European armies, to send equipment to Ukraine and to participate in the so-called Ukraine Defense Contact Group, which is described by the US Secretary of Defense as a NATO alliance.

We have massive expansion in the amount of NATO troops in eastern Europe, going from approximately 4,000 just over a year ago to more than 50,000 at this point in time. The very latest development is the sending of heavy tanks to Ukraine, Abrams from the US and Leopard 2s from Germany. There is even talk now of F-16s being sent to Ukraine. Who are the winners from all of this? It is the armaments corporations - the dealers of death and destruction. General Dynamics, which makes Abrams tanks and Stryker vehicles, reported a 15.5% increase in revenue in the fourth quarter of 2022. Raytheon Technologies, makers of the Stinger missile and Javelin launcher announced its profits had doubled in the last quarter of 2022. Lockheed Martin increased its revenues up to €15 billion for the last quarter of 2022, up 7%.

We must speak the truth. In the words of George Orwell, speaking the truth at a time of universal deceit is a revolutionary act. This is a time of universal deceit and incredible wartime propaganda in Russia but also in the west. The truth is that what we have seen is an horrific imperialist invasion by Russia of Ukraine. It is our comrades who are on the streets in Russia, in opposition to this war, who have been arrested for that. The truth is that it is the socialist left and People Before Profit who have been most consistent in our opposition to Putin, when Bertie Ahern was shaking his hand and when Tony Blair was rolling out the red carpet for him.

It is also true that what is happening at the moment is a proxy war between US-led western imperialism on the one hand and Russia on the other. In that conflict, neither side has the interests of ordinary people. Russia is looking to expand its area of influence after a period of retreat at the expense of the right to self-determination of ordinary people in Ukraine, but US imperialism in the west is seeking to hem in Russia and to prepare for a future conflict with China. It is ordinary people who are suffering. Instead of going along with the drive to war and with militarisation, ordinary people in Ireland should be raising their voice in opposition and in calling for peace. We must ring the warning bell and say that sending more and more heavy weaponry, which only goes in one direction - it is massive tanks now and it may be F-16s in a couple of months - is a big danger to the entire world. It does not bring peace any closer; instead, it even brings the danger of nuclear conflict that threatens all of humanity.

Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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The next speaking slot is Sinn Féin's but I will call Deputy Berry, if that is okay. I will then return to Sinn Féin.

Cathal Berry (Kildare South, Independent)
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I am very grateful for the opportunity to make some brief comments on the outcome of the most recent EU Council meeting in Brussels in December. I thank the Tánaiste for his background briefs to the House, which were very useful.

I welcome that the meeting's agenda was rightly dominated by the situation in Ukraine brought about by the unnecessary and illegal attack by the Russian Federation. I welcome the condemnation of the completely unacceptable missile strike and drone attacks, which specifically targeted civilian infrastructure. These were a complete war crime and a crime against humanity, and should be condemned as strongly as possible, which they have been. I welcome in particular the promotion of accountability, or at least the principle of it. I recognise that establishing a special court regarding what is going on is a difficult enterprise but it was done in respect of the former Yugoslavia, which is a very good model to work on. Will the accountability component deter these acts? Probably not, but a small fraction of them might be deterred, which means this measure is to be welcomed.

I completely acknowledge and recognise the promotion of the prospect of a just peace. However, I am very realistic about the prospects for it. I do not think the Russian Federation, particularly the current Kremlin regime, has any interest in a peaceful resolution. If it had, it would not have undertaken the journey it did 11 months ago. I welcome the principle but I am conscious of the unrealistic nature of it. Rather than a peaceful solution, we are far more likely to see an escalation in the next few weeks, probably before St. Patrick's Day, depending on the weather. We are looking at a major intensification of the fighting, which will be much worse this year than last. We do not want this to happen but we have to deal with the reality that it is the most likely scenario based on circumstances in Ukraine at present.

I welcome the call for the ending of the death penalty in Iran. What has happened there in respect of peaceful protest is outrageous and scandalous. There are kangaroo courts and extra-judicial killings of people who legitimately protested against an illegitimate regime. The fact that there was condemnation of Iran's provision to the Russian Federation of drones that targeted civilians in Ukraine is a good way to go.

On a positive note, and it is very important to finish on such a note, I welcome the European Union's engagement with its southern neighbourhood. We have a migrant crisis, which has arrived in Ireland for sure, and it is key to address the legitimate issues in the villages and towns in the countries of origin. The EU's southern neighbourhood needs to be given a fair chance through overseas assistance aid and fair trading practices so that they can improve and develop from a societal and economic perspective in step with their European cousins.

I welcome that President Roberta Metsola will address both Houses on Thursday. It is a positive step. MEPs communicate directly to their national parliaments about the European Parliament but it is always good to get a direct communication from the EU President. The fact that the next EU Commission summit on Ukraine will take place on Friday on Ukrainian soil is also a positive step.

I will finish with a question. The Minister of State may not have the details to hand but perhaps he could follow up. My understanding is that Ireland has provided, or at least pledged, €66 million in aid to the European Peace Facility. How much of that has been drawn down? I hear very limited amounts have been drawn down so far. If it has been drawn down, what specifically has it been spent on? I ask for an itemised list of non-lethal items that have been purchased using it. I thank the Minister of State for hearing me out.

Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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We will return to the Government slot. Deputy Murnane O'Connor has eight minutes.

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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When the most recent EU Council meeting took place on 15 December, it was the last one that Deputy Micheál Martin attended as Taoiseach. Many of the issues discussed that day are still present today. It was so important that he participated in showing how much unity the EU has on all these issues. The Council addressed the war in Ukraine and listened to President Zelenskyy on the immediate needs and state of play. It is, therefore, important to say that there are significant issues on moving fast enough with our promises.

I ask the Minister of State to address the issue of those looking to provide services and accommodation to local authorities for our Ukrainian refugees. I know of many property owners who can accommodate refugees but, despite my interventions, still await action to arrange this. There seems to be a block in the system. I would appreciate it if the Minister of State would examine the matter in order to free up the backlog. We all remain very committed to supporting Ukraine as much as we can. This European Council meeting has confirmed and reinforced the decisions in this process but we must be realistic. We are at a stage where we cannot find homes for those who need them. Many people are sleeping on the street - that issue will always come up - even though all of us are committed to helping out any way we can.

I am also concerned that in our kindness and eagerness to support refugees at this time there is a communication mishap, especially if there is any negativity. That is so important. We are here to help and to do our best. The biggest issue facing us as Deputies is that we are not being informed when refugees or those seeking international protection are coming so we can offer whatever assistance we need in order to help on the ground. It is important that we are there but, again, communication is a significant issue.

I commend the European Council on expressing its condolences to the family of the Irish soldier, Seán Rooney, at its meeting. Private Rooney lost his life while with the UN operating in Lebanon. I extend my sympathy to his family and colleagues, in addition to the victims of and those injured in the accident. Last week, the Tánaiste was adamant that those responsible for the killing of Private Rooney must be brought to justice. I totally agree with his sentiments. Carlow has a long history of sending soldiers to Lebanon. Private Rooney's untimely death was mourned in that county, as it was throughout the country.

This month, more than 200 military officers and enlisted personnel in the Defence Forces were conferred with an academic award by the South East Technological University, SETU. It was great to see the future of our peacekeeping so vibrant. It was the first SETU conferring for Defence Forces personnel. It was great to see them receive their awards in person for the first time since 2019. In fact, this ceremony was the largest annual military graduation in the State from a higher education institution. Due to the nature of their military service, some had to have their awards accepted on their behalf as some of them are currently serving in Lebanon, Mali and other locations overseas. They are doing such important work. I wish all who serve in our Defence Forces well. I wish them safety in their jobs. I support the many calls to address the inadequate pay, pensions and conditions for members of our Army, Air Corps and Naval Service.

A recent question tabled by a colleague revealed that 591 people had left the Defence Forces and only 300 had been recruited. We have to address this and we have to ask why. When will the State implement the technical pay agreement agreed in July 2019? The EU working time directive does not apply to the Defence Forces. I hear so many stories of this and, of course, the huge number of hours. I also regularly meet Defence Forces families in my clinics, whose members earn such low wages they qualify for the State's working family payment supports. This is unacceptable. We should show our unity in this House on this matter and find solutions in order that we can support the growth of this career path for citizens who wish to pursue it.

It is important to wish everyone well today. We are so lucky that we have such great Defence Forces. It is so important that the issue of pay, conditions and proper wages will be addressed arising from today's debate.

Martin Browne (Tipperary, Sinn Fein)
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I congratulate the Minister of State on his new role. Also, this is my first chance to send condolences to Private Seán Rooney's family on his untimely death.

I will focus on just two things that came out of the European Council meeting. One was the call on the Commission to present in early 2023 a strategy at EU level to boost competitiveness and productivity. That call was being made at the same time we had a Minister and a junior Minister appear before us on Committee Stage and say nothing at all about Coillte bringing in investment funds and selling off half our land to them. That has to stop and Sinn Féin has made a call in that regard. The Minister will tell us that these practices enable greater productivity on the part of our foresters. They do not. It is the complete opposite. We are driving foresters and small farmers out of the industry. I implore the Minister of State to talk to his fellow Ministers and try to reverse that decision.

Deputy Andrews talked about the situation in Palestine. I wish to address the dreadful scenes we see coming daily from the Palestinian territories at the moment. It is a continuation of the persecution of the Palestinian people that has been enabled by inaction on the part of this Government, the EU and others. They have sat on their hands and watched the daily slaughter of Palestinian people. Now we hear reports that, in addition to Israeli forces demolishing Palestinian homes, they want to build further settlements there. Israel has broken resolution after resolution and the Government must raise this, especially at EU level. Ireland was a member of the UN Security Council. We wasted that opportunity to raise the slaughter going on in Palestine.

Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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Sinn Féin remains the only political party on this island that has produced a comprehensive policy on the rights of people in recovery. The Government has no strategic vision for those in recovery from addiction. There are countries right across Europe that have credible policies that recognise the human rights to which those who are in recovery are entitled. There is an opportunity to learn from our European neighbours, but instead we truck on and watch the community addiction sector be decimated by funding cuts, loss of autonomy and downright disrespect on the part of the Government. Many of our European neighbours have implemented the Communities That Care model. We could learn from that. We could learn how to strengthen our community addiction sector and recognise that those who are on the ground are the experts. Instead of ignoring the community and the addiction sector, let us learn from our European neighbours and many of the forward-thinking ideas they have. Let us give communities autonomy and the tools and the support to tackle addiction and to resource recovery. I believe that this issue has cross-party support and that we should work together and look at Europe and across the world to see what we can do to come together to support those in recovery and those who work with people in addiction.

Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party)
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First, I congratulate the Minister of State, Deputy Burke, on his new position. I wish him very well in the role in the term ahead. Second, because I have not done so already, I join colleagues in expressing my condolences on the death of Private Seán Rooney. The European Council expressed its condolences at the weekend.

Coming up to a year ago - 24 February I think was the date the war in Europe kicked off - we spoke in this House in the weeks leading up to that point and none of us could quite believe what was coming. I spoke about the sabre-rattling of Putin and his regime. I just could not foresee a situation where the tanks would roll across the border and the missiles would fly through the air and start destroying Ukrainian cities and killing innocent civilians. A year on we have seen the absolute depravity of this war and it does not look like it will end anytime soon.

I wish to raise, as Deputy Berry did a few minutes ago, the issue of the European Peace Facility fund. Ireland has committed €66 million for purchase of non-lethal weaponry, that is body armour, medical bags and so on. Non-lethal weaponry could also extend to weapons to intercept missiles, such as those that came down on the city of Dnipro, or radar to intercept them. That would be consistent with the programme for Government. The relevant line reads:

Within the context of the European Peace Facility [fund], Ireland will not be part of decision-making or funding for lethal force weapons for non-peacekeeping purposes.

These would be non-lethal weapons. Ireland should do everything it can to prevent the utter carnage we see in Ukraine at the moment.

We should also look to the stores of weapons we have in this country. We have such equipment in our own military stores and could send it to Ukraine. We should actively consider that. Doing so would not contravene our neutrality. I believe that it is the morally and ethically right thing to do. We should do everything we can to help protect the civilians of Ukraine from Russia's acts of terrorism against them.

On the issue of neutrality, we are in the untenable situation where we are a neutral country but we cannot defend our neutrality. Speakers before me have talked about the importance of focusing now on our ability to defend ourselves and investing in it. The Commission on the Defence Forces report last year, the publication of which was a commitment in the programme for Government, points the way to significant, increased spending on our Defence Forces. Members have talked about the importance of pay and conditions and I absolutely agree with them, but the war in Ukraine should sharpen our focus when it comes to defence.

I was on a ferry coming back from France in March of last year. I was one of very few Irish people on the ferry. There were hundreds, perhaps more than a thousand, refugees from Ukraine on the same ferry coming into Rosslare. The television was on in the lounge of the ferry and citizens of Mariupol were watching the television and watching their city at that moment being reduced to rubble. There is nothing left of Mariupol now. I saw those citizens there. I watched with them. They were in tears as they saw their homes being destroyed. We have to continue to remember the utter devastation that has been brought to Ukraine. We cannot let this issue settle to the back of our minds. We have to keep it as a top priority for us in this country.

The flow of refugees into this country has created huge challenges for us and will continue to do so. We have had a population surge, a 7.6% increase in population, in the past five years. A lot of that is down to the good work of previous governments, including the job creation and the net inward migration. This country has got back on its feet in the past five or ten years from a very low point around 2010 and 2011, but now we have tens of thousands, 70,000 or 80,000, extra refugees on top of that 7.6% increase in the population.

We are in a situation where we have not developed housing commensurate with the population increase we are seeing and with the refugee crisis on top of that we are in a dire situation with housing. I welcome the intent to revise the Planning and Development Act 2000, which the Minister of State will know a lot about from his previous role. We should be expeditious when it comes to planning. We should always be mindful of the rights of residents' groups and stakeholders, which should all be taken seriously, but we have to be able to make quick decisions and we have to build housing at a scale we simply have not done for many decades. This Government is doing that and will continue to do it but we can leave no stone unturned.

There is an argument, in the context of this increasing population and Ireland's role in taking in refugees and international protection applicants, to look again at our development plans and at the land we have around our country that is available for development. It is much harder in Dublin than it is in the city I come from, Limerick. We have a lot of land for development and we have infrastructure that can support the development of this land. I urge the Minister of State, in any engagements he has with the Land Development Agency, to point to Limerick and the vast land banks that are there. We can build high quality and high density housing near sustainable transport infrastructure and other critical infrastructure. We can take a lot of the pressure off cities like Dublin that are creaking at the seams. The reopening of the Limerick to Foynes railway line will happen by 2025, initially for freight purposes, but there is an opportunity there to develop residential settlements along the railway line in places like Raheen, Patrickswell, Adare, Askeaton and Foynes. That is a significant opportunity but the development plan in Limerick precludes us from developing those areas. We need to go back into those development plans, even though many of them have just been agreed in the last year. We need to go back in, see what land is available and what infrastructure is there and activate as much land and residential development as we can in line with the good policies this Government already has in place in housing and development.

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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I wish the Minister of State every good luck and success. I compliment the Tánaiste on his recent trip abroad to our peacekeeping force in Lebanon and I acknowledge the sad events surrounding the death of Private Rooney. I think of his family and of all the peacekeepers. The reason I mentioned the Tánaiste's trip is that a constituent of mine who has a family relative out there was glad to see the Tánaiste over there meeting our troops and thanking them on behalf of all of us for the excellent work they do. They put themselves in harm's way for the good of everybody else.

I want to use the short bit of time I have to talk about energy security. We have seen what the Ukraine war has done in the massive increase in the cost of fuel and gas and what that means to us here with our energy prices. I want to highlight an anomaly in the Government's failed policies. For example, I mention the shutting down of Bord na Móna and what that has resulted in, and I am glad to bring the following matter to the floor of the Dáil. A ship came into Foynes over the weekend with biomass fuel which needs to be transported up to Offaly. It would not need to be transported there at all if we were cutting turf but now this bio fuel will need 1,750 articulated lorries to shift it out of the ship and up to Offaly. I hope they will redden the road from Foynes up there and I will tell the Minister of State why. I hope they will put black smoke out of their lorries too and I will tell the Minister of State why. They would not have to do it at all if the Minister of State and his Government had left us alone in the first instance and did not take the disgraceful action of shutting down Bord na Móna. That is the result and that is what the Minister of State, Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Greens have done. Some 1,750 lorries are going up the road thanks to them.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent)
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I too congratulate the Minister of State and wish him well in his role. He was always good in his last role. Ireland must be a voice for peace, justice and freedom. As a neutral country we should be doing everything possible to bring this horrible war to an end. It is amazing, as Deputy Connolly said earlier, how we can talk about no place else only Ukraine. As horrific as it is, there are wars going on everywhere. Clergymen were slaughtered in churches in Africa recently and there was not a word about it.

Did the Taoiseach, Tánaiste or the Minister of State raise the matter that is central to Ireland's immigration policy at the European Council meeting? It is imperative that we discuss it. The Rural Independent Group, which I am the leader of, has been calling for a grown-up and adult debate on Ireland's immigration policy for over six months. In 2022 Ireland took in over 70,000 people. We just cannot sustain this. I always said we should have capped it at maybe 25,000 or 30,000. Rinneamar ár ndícheall and in the sense of the meitheal people have helped but what is going on now is clandestine with busloads of people coming in during the middle of the night, many of whom are not from Ukraine, and it is happening in secrecy. I mention what is happening in Lismore House Hotel in County Waterford and what is happening in Cathair Dhún Iascaigh, where there are rumours. We do not get the information so I ask the Government to give us the information. The people have rallied and will rally but they need to be supported and not blackguarded. We need an adult, sensible, reasonable and respectful debate and we should not be shouted down here as we have been when looking for this debate. The whole country is talking about it and that includes every village, street and corner and we cannot have a debate in this Chamber. It is quite absurd.

Danny Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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I am glad to get the opportunity to say a few words on this, although my time is short. It appears the Government is deliberately blocking the public from having any voice when it comes to the Government's immigration policy, which is all over the place. This is clearly being dictated to us by unelected bureaucrats in Brussels and we cannot have a debate in here because we are held back from doing so.

I too want to talk about the energy policy we have. We shut down Bord na Móna in the middle of the country when we had no alternative and we have no alternative. We see that Germany, which seems to have common sense all the time about most things, is opening up its coal mines to ensure its people are warm and secure in their homes. It is doing something for its people but this Government is doing nothing only trying to ensure the people will perish with the cold. We had the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Deputy Eamon Ryan, out in the summer telling us we should not be cutting turf but I am glad that where I come from they are burning turf and they have turf to burn. I hope they will be allowed to have it for a long time because there is no alternative coming from the Government. The Government is not helping the people but it is trying to ensure that everything wrong is being done to them by stopping them cutting a bit of turf that never did any harm to anyone. When I see the smoke coming out of Dan Kelleher's chimney at 7 a.m., I am glad that he has a fire to keep himself warm because the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, would not keep him warm.

Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent)
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I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to statements on the European Council meeting. I was particularly concerned about this meeting’s focus on strengthening security and defence. The European Council’s conclusions support that the EU is "taking more responsibility for the EU's own security [and in the field of defence] pursuing a strategic course of action...and increasing the EU's capacity to act autonomously". The Council, during its meeting, also called for a commitment to invest in the capabilities necessary "to conduct the full range of missions and operations", including a rapid deployment capacity.

The constant focus on EU militarisation and the steps towards an EU army should be a cause for concern for everyone in this country, as Ireland is subtly being roped into this. We know it is not a cause for concern for everyone in this House but it should be for everybody in the country; there is no doubt about that. The year 2022 was a challenging time for Irish neutrality. The Government has assured us that this is not the case but many of us in opposition see the different ways in which neutrality is slowly being eroded. I have raised the concern of neutrality many times recently, however I feel that as public representatives we must do all we can to raise the concerns and interests of our constituents.

A poll from The Irish Timeslast year showed that a significant majority of people in Ireland disagreed with the statement that: "Ireland should send military aid to Ukraine, even if this affects our neutrality". Despite this, over the course of the year it seems that both the Government and the media have been adamant to shift the public’s support for neutrality. Why is this?

What is the reason for it? Why does the Government continue to refuse to act in the interest of its citizens? That is the big question.

At the beginning of this month, Irish representatives participated in one of the NATO military committee's meetings on NATO's strategy and war fighting concepts. Why would Ireland participate in these meetings when we are not a member of NATO? Why would we participate as a neutral country? More interestingly, why was it not even reported on?

Four EU members, Ireland, Malta, Austria and Cyprus, are neutral countries. However, the EU is forcing us into alignment with NATO. Why is this fact never acknowledged and respected at these European Council meetings? This is not what Ireland signed up for when we joined the EU.

It was also interesting that the European Council reported that the US is our foremost strategic partner and ally and we share deep and strategic ties. In what exactly is it a strategic partner? This is concerning, especially when one considers that Shannon Airport continues to be used by the US military to fuel the war in Ukraine, and in the Middle East where it is involved. This contradicts our obligations as a neutral country.

Recently Zelenskyy asked the US Congress for more money for weapons that will likely be shipped through our country. We cannot allow this to go on while calling Ireland a country of peace.

What we can do is provide a neutral voice at the negotiating table. We should encourage de-escalation and peace talks, not attending NATO strategy meetings. This island has unique experience and expertise in negotiating for peace. This is where our strengths lie. This is what we should be utilising in this uncertain and frightening time for many Ukrainians and, indeed, Europeans.

To do this, however, the EU needs to start respecting our neutral stance rather than trying to pull us into this militarisation that it is trying to force on member states. The media and the Government also need to start respecting what the Irish people want regarding neutrality, and the Taoiseach needs to start communicating this want at these European Council meetings. No doubt Europe might be pulling us one way but the Government is happily running down the road to meet them anyway regardless of the views of the Irish people.

I echo the Council's condemnation of the recent death penalty sentences pronounced following the ongoing protests in Iran. The right to peacefully protest is an important right and I am shocked and saddened at the treatment of peaceful protesters in Iran, particularly women. The introduction of a death penalty at any time, under any circumstances, is unforgivable.

I agree with the Council's calls to ensure the availability and affordability of agricultural products and fertilisers. This is an important topic. More time should have been spent addressing this than addressing security and defence at these Council meetings.

There are significant concerns regarding food security. I raised these recently. This is something that we should debate further in this Chamber rather than continuously talking and pushing on what is happening with NATO. The Government should declare what it wants to do, come out straightforwardly and say it wants to get rid of neutrality and it wants to be part of an EU military strategy, and then be open about it and have a proper debate on it.

Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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That concludes the statements. We will move to the questions portion. While there is no set time on the questions, I am gauging interest in the Chamber. I ask Members to be concise, to confine themselves to approximately two minutes and to allow the Minister of State two minutes to reply. The first group is Sinn Féin.

John Brady (Wicklow, Sinn Fein)
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First and foremost, I congratulate the Minister of State, Deputy Peter Burke, on his new position. This is my first opportunity to question the Minister of State on the floor of the House and I will try to be brief.

I have a couple of questions and we can take them one at a time in the first slot.

As we approach the first anniversary of the illegal invasion of Ukraine, I want to talk about the refugees who have been forced to flee Ukraine. Some 8 million, at this point, have fled the country in search of safety across Europe. When the war broke out, in February last year, the Government said that we could expect up to 200,000 refugees to land in Ireland. There is still no plan to house the 70,000 plus who have arrived here to date. We are expecting another new Russian onslaught once spring arrives. What analysis has been carried out by the EU on the expected number of Ukrainians to flee over the next number of months and what measures are being provided to member states by the EU to help address the many needs of those refugees once they come to Ireland or other member states?

Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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I thank the Deputies for their questions and their kind comments.

First, on the temporary protection directive, 72,000 Ukrainian citizens have been welcomed into Ireland. The response has been challenging. We have seen potentially an 1,100% plus increase in Ukrainian citizens who are availing of international protection or a request for same coming into the State and we are trying to respond to provide shelter on both fronts.

In terms of a plan, we are well under way regarding a rapid build trying to provide emergency accommodation for Ukrainian citizens as well as the unoccupied homes call that is out from the local authorities, and our community call forum, which was rebranded post-Covid to deal, through the local authority network, with assisting Ukrainian citizens and drawing all the ties of the State agencies together. The Cabinet has also increased the recognition payment in respect of private homes, where we have seen so many citizens across the country step up to the mark. With regard to the community fund, we have €50 million to support communities, which have stepped up to the mark in this response, with infrastructure.

As the war escalates - we have seen horrific consequences on the ground in Ukraine - it is exceptionally difficult to say what the flow of Ukrainian citizens into Ireland will be. Through the Ukrainian embassy here and the Ukrainian ambassador, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and all the team are in close contact regarding the horrific consequences. The emergency European Council meeting next week will be to the forefront of it as well in terms of the continued response as we hit the first anniversary.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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I think we have time for me to ask two different questions. I want to ask about Ukraine first.

Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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We will have time for a number of rounds.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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Okay.

This is my first opportunity to congratulate the Minster of State, Deputy Peter Burke, on his new role. I wish him well in a very important role for Ireland.

I mentioned that we will not provide military weapons to Ukraine. What they have asked for is critical infrastructure. I stated the Council has asked for mobile heating stations, power generators, power transformers and high-voltage lighting equipment. Are we mobilising that? Have we gone across State agencies? I saw some being provided by the ESB, but is there a coherent and strategic plan to respond to the cry for help for a nation that is now being battered by Russian bombardment? I refer to infrastructure to provide light and heat as there are still many months of Ukraine winter for the people to face. What are we doing about that?

To follow up on Deputy Brady's question, the conclusions of the Council stated that the member states should intensive contingency planning for displaced persons. That is what we signed-up for. In terms of our contingency planning for the next 12 months, what number of additional refugees is it based on? The Minister of State said it is hard to gauge but the Government is putting infrastructure in place for some number. What is that, and what specifically are the contingency plans the Government has?

Third, I mentioned that the Council asked the high representative and the Commission to examine the use of frozen Russian assets to support Ukrainian reconstruction. That is a splendid idea. There are tens of billions of euro of Russian assets frozen. Is it legal to sequester them and deploy them to undo the damage that Russian bombardment of Ukraine has currently unleashed on the people of Ukraine?

Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle)
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Will we take another question or does the Minister of State want to deal with that?

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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We are dealing with them one at a time.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle)
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Fine.

Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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I thank Deputy Howlin for his kind wishes.

In the first instance, in regard to the response, "Yes" is the answer to the Deputy's question in terms of the key infrastructure. President Zelenskyy, on the phone call that recently took place with the Tánaiste and Minister of Foreign Affairs, underscored the level of investment they need in their SME sector to rebuild the country, of which Ireland has provided €25 million which has been disbursed in the most recent budget.

To give a flavour of some of the really important interventions on the ground, we have provided in the region of 4,000 blood bags, 10,000 bio-protection suits, 50,000 medical protection masks, 10,000 tonnes of meals and foodstuffs and more than 200 units of body armour. We have provided contained water treatment plants that have been brought out, as well as funding through the mechanism of the World Bank.

I had a bilateral conversation with my Austrian counterpart and she underscored the importance of non-lethal aid in the response to Ukraine. When she was out there with a group of European foreign affairs ministers there was, unfortunately, a bombing close by and as the first responders from Ukraine were attending that site she could see visibly the Austrian symbol on the back of the protection equipment that they had handed over. That was a very visible response and showed the effect that non-lethal interventions can have, which is very important for our country.

Regarding the plans for rapid build homes, we currently have six sites and most are on site. We are trying to increase this through the local authority network and to get more derelict properties back into use. I know the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth are working across purposes trying to achieve a significant increase but as I know from my experience over the past 12 months in the Department with responsibility for housing it is very difficult to project into the future with the huge uncertainty surrounding what will happen in Ukraine.

In terms of the twin approach with international protection, I saw a figure that in the period of January to January there was more than an 1,100% increase in international protection citizens coming to Ireland to seek asylum, which is a massive increase. It was very hard to predict a year previous to that but the State is really ramping up its response and trying to ensure we have shelter, which is very important.

The State has frozen around €1.8 billion of Russian assets that are currently in Ireland. The competent authorities are the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Central Bank of Ireland and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. I note that work is underway to see how they can re-purpose those assets in terms of rebuilding Ukraine and I understand there are legal issues at the moment as to how they may do that but they are working collectively with the EU to see what is possible to achieve that and we would support that.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle)
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We will take questions from Deputy Mattie McGrath and Deputy Brady and the Minister of State will then respond.

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent)
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Go raibh maith agat. I asked the Minister of State - I wish him well in his new role - if the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste or he himself had raised the issue of the huge pressure and the weight on our country from our obligations to take in, I think it is now 70,000, and the huge pressure it is putting on our systems. We are not really able to cope, quite clearly. People here have been gallant in opening their homes and community halls and groups, with a sense of meitheal; ní neart go cur le chéile. However, we have to have a pause and a bit of a break to chart out a roadmap. Did the Minister of State raise that with the Europeans or are we all the goody goodies who say to send as many as they want and we will take them? Did they asked for mercy, which is the wrong word, but some breathing space so we can try to source accommodation?

I have a question for the Minister of State, who comes from the Department with responsibility for housing. I meet people daily who have offered properties to local councils. I met one person today in Lisheen in Clonmel offering a fine property with three apartments and dealing with one of the voluntary housing bodies and the council showed no interest in it. It is the same with Lismore which has a hospital that is not used and a number of other derelict buildings. Did they have to take the only hotel they have? It is the same in my own town of Cahir where places are taken over. It is sending out the wrong message. There is a lack of communication. We should bring the people with us. Irish people will not shy from supporting people but we must challenge this.

Why we do not have a word about what is going on in Iran or in Africa where clergymen are being slain and slaughtered, and sometimes Uachtarán na hÉireann decides that it is climate change that caused this? Why do we not raise our voices on these things? The war in Ukraine is horrible, as are all wars, but it is not the only atrocity being carried out. They are horrible atrocities, do not get me wrong, but there are other areas and we seem to forget about them. I do not know what causes this, if it is colour of skin or whatever, but something is causing it that we turn a blind eye and have no interest as Europeans and as Irish people in what goes on there.

John Brady (Wicklow, Sinn Fein)
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It is really important that all perpetrators of war crimes are held to account for their crimes, for crimes against humanity, for butchery and grotesque murder of civilians in any circumstances. I welcome the EU push and the involvement of Ireland in the investigation by the International Criminal Court of all of the Russian atrocities. I genuinely welcome that and note that the Tánaiste spoke about the special tribunal that is being looked at to advance justice for all of those who have lost loved ones as a result.

However, this is a stark contrast to the approach, not just by the EU or Ireland but by the international community in relation to war crimes, crimes against humanity and breaches of international law against the Palestinian people. I note there is not the same intensity to the investigation by the International Criminal Court of war crimes perpetrated by Israel against Palestinians and that case has been open since 2019. I ask the Minister of State what actions this Government and the EU are prepared to take with regard to standing up for international law right across the board but particularly when one of the most serial violators of international law and perpetrators of crimes against humanity is Israel. What actions will this Government take? Will it finally recognise the state of Palestine? Will it implement the occupied territories Bill? Is the EU going to do anything? Will it end the preferential trade agreement with Israel or will it continue to side with the violators of international law in some circumstances? What actions will the EU take and what actions will this Government take?

Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle)
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Deputy Howlin will come in again.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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I have a supplementary question relating to the US's inflation reduction Act which was debated at the European Council. I know that at the previous summit between France and Germany, considerable concern was raised about the impact that it potentially has for European business and European competitiveness due to the fact there is so much money to be employed in the United States to support US manufacturing. The concern is that if it is left to individual member states that obviously Germany and France have very deep pockets. I instanced where the state subsidy had been relaxed from last March and the enormous preponderance, two thirds of the state aid in the past 12 months, being deployed by those two countries. It is a distortion of the Internal Market. What is the strategy of Ireland to ensure our manufacturing and our export sector is not adversely affected by investment by states, either in the European Union itself or by the United States under the inflation reduction Act?

Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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I thank the Members for their questions. In relation to Deputy Mattie McGrath, I understand that the Taoiseach committed to a debate on these issues in the next two weeks during today's Order of Business, if I am not mistaken. Obviously as a member of the EU we are to the forefront in meeting our international obligations to ensure that those coming, who are very traumatised and in very difficult circumstances, are provided with shelter and accommodation. That is proving a huge challenge in terms of the logistics in rolling that out but we are doing our very best to ensure we can provide a very strong response. As for Iran and the huge atrocities being carried out there, that was raised at the recent European Council meeting. The EU was united in its condemnation of the death penalty and also of the atrocities and the denial of human rights, integrity and dignity in Iran.

That was to the forefront of the meeting and detailed in the communiqué issued following the meeting.

The special tribunal was raised in respect of Ukraine as well as Palestine. We are to the forefront on this and the Government has been united in our response to the atrocities taking place in respect of women, children and all people that this is happened to in Palestine. We absolutely condemn it. It has been raised on several occasions. On 3 October, the EU was to the forefront in keeping dialogue open and condemning the atrocities and the illegal settlements in Palestine. We in the Government are united with the EU as a single force to ensure our voice is heard. It is about getting the balance in keeping the dialogue open with Prime Minister Netanyahu,to be able to achieve that.

John Brady (Wicklow, Sinn Fein)
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That dialogue has not worked up to now.

Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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With regard to Deputy Howlin's contribution, the Taoiseach was very concerned about the Inflation Reduction Act. The Deputy quite rightly referred to state aid and the beneficiaries of that, which is a massive concern for the Government. President von der Leyen said the Commission will issue a package of measures on four key issues - regulatory environment, finance, skills and trade - in the coming days as a response. Competitiveness is key to the EU and we are very much exposed to that, as the Deputy rightly pointed out. We are trying to build a close relation with the US but we must also be very mindful as to the impact the Inflation Reduction Act may have, including on the acceleration of the green economy. As to state aid and the temporary measures that were taken, we must be careful as to how they affect Ireland and how they can benefit other major EU economies. I will be to the forefront in raising this at the upcoming EU summit.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle)
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That concludes the Minister of State's response. He may now provide his concluding remarks.

Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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I thank Deputies for their statements and questions. I will now address further issues that were on the agenda of December's European Council meeting. At the meeting, leaders agreed to grant EU candidate status to Bosnia and Herzegovina. This is a real opportunity for Bosnia and Herzegovina to move forward and I support their path and the efforts they now need to undertake to deliver their programme of reforms. A new government was formed in Bosnia and Herzegovina last week. I wish President Borjana Krišto, as chairperson of the Council of Ministers, and all of her colleagues in the government every success. Ireland stands ready to support the government and people of Bosnia and Herzegovina in preparing for membership of the European Union. We will also continue to support a peaceful and secure future for all the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina through the participation of members of the Irish Defence Forces in EUFOR Operation Althea, and we were proud to have played a role in the successful renewal of the Althea mandate last November during our term on the United Nations Security Council. The opportunities afforded to Ireland as a member of the EU should be afforded to all countries that are prepared to meet the requirements of accession. Ireland will support those who wish to join on that basis.

I also welcome that the EU officially launched accession negotiations with Albania and North Macedonia in July. This sent an important signal to the region that the EU remains serious about enlargement. In December, EU Leaders welcomed Croatia's entry into the Schengen area as of 1 January 2023, and discussed Bulgaria's and Romania's future accession to Schengen. Another important milestone was reached by Croatia on 1 January, when it became the 20th EU country to introduce the single currency. Croatia has worked hard to achieve the economic convergence required for introducing the euro, including far-reaching economic and governance reform and sound public spending policies. Croatian citizens have now joined a community of 347 million Europeans who are using the euro in their everyday lives. By becoming its 20th member, just a decade after becoming a member of the EU and barely three decades after becoming an independent country, Croatia's accession is a timely reminder of the potential and opportunities that EU membership can unlock, and at pace.

I will take this timely opportunity to discuss the Swedish EU Presidency, which began on 1 January 2023.

At a time of historic challenges for the European Union and its member states, the Swedish Presidency programme sets out the priorities and main direction for the work of the Council in the first half of this year. These are grouped under four main headings, the first of which is security. The swift and decisive EU response to the illegal invasion of Ukraine is a manifestation of our political strength when we act collectively. The Swedish Presidency will prioritise continued support for Ukraine and its path towards EU membership. It will focus also on tackling cross-border organised crime.

The second is competitiveness. While urgent political attention is necessarily devoted to the war in Ukraine and its immediate economic impacts, strengthening Europe's economy to meet our long-term challenges must also remain an important focus. Europe's strength and global standing depend on our economic resilience, building on the dynamism of the Single Market and its influence on open global trading standards, while providing the best possible conditions for investment, innovation and entrepreneurship.

Third is the green and energy transitions. The Swedish Presidency will continue efforts to tackle high and volatile energy prices while addressing long-term energy market reform. Europe must lead by example in shaping a global response to the global climate challenge, putting its Fit for 55 agenda into action and speeding up the energy transition. Joint European steps towards independence from fossil fuels are necessary not only for the green transition, but also for our collective security.

The fourth priority is democratic values and the rule of law. Upholding the principle of the rule of law and fundamental rights is an essential element of every Presidency of the Council. The EU is based on democratic values, individual freedoms and non-discrimination. I wish Sweden every success for its Presidency term. This is a critical time in the history of our union and the ambitious programme presented by the Swedish Presidency, with the collective response to the ongoing war in Ukraine at the heart of it, provides the right basis to meet these challenges head on.

I look forward to travelling to the General Affairs Council in Brussels next Monday, 6 February. The agenda will include an exchange of views on the priorities of the Swedish Presidency, an update on the state of play in EU-UK relations, and preparation of the special meeting of the European Council on 9 and 10 February 2023. I expect the agenda for the special meeting to include economic issues and migration. Leaders will also get to discuss the situation in Ukraine.

The discussion on economic issues follows agreement in December on the need for a co-ordinated response to enhance Europe's economic strength and its global competitiveness, while preserving the integrity of the Single Market. It comes in the wake of the adoption by the US of its Inflation Reduction Act.

Discussion of migration is expected to focus, in particular, on the external dimension of the issue. Co-operation and mutually beneficial partnerships with third countries of origin and transit are important in reducing irregular migration and the numbers undertaking dangerous journeys.

I conclude by again thanking Deputies for their participation in the debate. I look forward to future debates on this important topic including as we continue to mark 50 years of Ireland's membership of the European Union.