Pa Daly (Kerry, Sinn Fein)
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40. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for an update on the humanitarian situation in Sudan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4386/25]

Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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The Government remains deeply concerned by the appalling humanitarian crisis in Sudan, one of the most severe worldwide. We continue to call for an immediate ceasefire. Since April 2023, over 11.5 million people have been displaced from their homes in the country, and a further 3.4 million have fled to neighbouring countries. The war has crippled Sudan's economy, leaving over 24 million people in acute food insecurity. Over 500,000 people are experiencing famine conditions in Darfur, and this number is expected to continue to grow in the coming months. Disease outbreaks are escalating, and women and girls are facing high levels of violence and exploitation.

This hunger catastrophe is man-made, caused by conflict, forced displacement, destruction of civilian infrastructure, and deliberate obstruction of humanitarian aid.

In 2024, Ireland provided over €14 million in humanitarian assistance for the Sudan crisis, which included €11.5 million within Sudan and €2.5 million in support of Sudanese refugees in neighbouring countries. This funding was channelled through UN agencies and International and Irish NGOs, working closely with local responders on nutrition, health, water and sanitation, shelter and cash support. Ireland's partners have also provided funding for Sudanese-led action, in particular community kitchens and women's organisations, providing vital support to the most affected people in hard to reach areas. We will provide significant further assistance this year.

The Government will continue to work with our European and multilateral partners to facilitate a scaled up humanitarian response, to work for a ceasefire and a civilian-led transition and to support accountability mechanisms that will bring peace and justice to the people of Sudan.