Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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305. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps being taken at European Union and United Nations level to address the deplorable humanitarian situation in Syrian refugee camps; the role and further actions to be taken by the Government to assist in these actions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7216/22]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Addressing the humanitarian needs of those who have fled the conflict in Syria, as well as addressing the political causes of that conflict, remains a priority for Ireland.

In terms of direct assistance Ireland provided €24 million in humanitarian aid in 2021 to assist those impacted by the Syrian conflict. Using a variety of trusted partners (such as UN agencies, Irish and International NGOs and the International Committee of the Red Cross) we have ensured that critical assistance reaches those most in need. This includes displaced Syrians still within the country as well as refugees in Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq and Turkey. I would like to acknowledge again the generous role played by those neighbouring countries in hosting the majority of Syrian refugees - most of these refugees live among the local communities rather than in camps.

Ireland's ability to help Syrian refugees, politically and with assistance, is magnified within the EU. Since the start of the crisis the EU has mobilised more than €24.9 billion in response. I attended the meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council on Monday 24 January during which the Council assessed how the EU might best respond to recent developments in Syria and I highlighted the humanitarian imperative to ensure access to aid for all those in need.

The humanitarian situation will continue to be challenging as long as conflict continues in Syria. Ireland strongly supports the efforts of the UN, led by Special Envoy Geir Pedersen, to find a sustainable political solution. I urge the Syrian government to intensify their engagement with the UN facilitated process.