Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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56. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the action he is taking in the context of the particularly horrific impact of Russia’s war on Ukraine on women and children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40320/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Russia’s illegal and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine continues to cause devastating consequences for the Ukrainian people. Recognising the disproportionate impact of the war on women and children, Ireland will continue to prioritise the protection of all vulnerable groups and the prevention of sexual and gender based violence. Ireland also supports a gender-responsive and inclusive recovery effort in Ukraine.

Approximately 20,000 children have been identified by Ukraine as having been forcibly deported from their homes. The European Council has strongly condemned these actions. At the Summit on Peace in Ukraine, the Taoiseach joined calls for their return. As a member of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, we are engaging in discussions on how we can support its important work. Ireland is committed to working with partners, such as UNICEF and the ICRC, who play a key role in supporting the re-integration of children and wider family reunification. In 2024 Ireland is providing €23.5 million in humanitarian assistance for Ukraine, including €5 million to the ICRC, €3 million to the UNFPA and €2 million to UNICEF.

Ireland has consistently supported strong sanctions against Russia in response to its aggression in Ukraine, including a range of measures targeting individuals and entities involved in the forced transfer, deportation, and military indoctrination of children.

I note that such alleged crimes are the subject of arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court. Ireland has raised this issue in multilateral forums, in our national capacity and as part of the EU. We co-sponsored a resolution of Human Rights Council establishing a commission of inquiry to investigate all alleged violations and abuses of human rights, and violations of international humanitarian law in the context of Russia's aggression against Ukraine. We will continue to support accountability for Russia’s crimes in Ukraine.