Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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290. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to outline Ireland’s views on Ukraine’s path to European Union membership; the role it will play as part of Ireland’s EU Presidency in 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24497/25]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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EU enlargement has become an even more strategic issue following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The invasion has highlighted the clear need for continuing, ever-closer cooperation between the EU and our partners in the Western Balkans and Eastern Neighbourhood regions. Ireland believes EU membership is an important guarantee for Ukraine.

The decision taken by the European Council in December 2023 to open accession negotiations with Ukraine, which Ireland strongly supported, recognises the significant progress made in implementing EU reforms in such extraordinary circumstances. It offers the prospect of a brighter future for the Ukrainian people.

Following the Council’s decision, the holding of the first Inter-governmental Conference on 25 June 2024 was yet another historic milestone in EU-Ukraine relations. I welcome the Polish Presidency’s plans to hold an IGC with Ukraine as soon as possible, which will allow Cluster 1 to be opened.

Ireland has consistently supported Ukraine’s EU perspective. We have been impressed by the reforms Ukraine has undertaken to date, while defending their country from invasion. We are committed to working with our Ukrainian partners in the years ahead as they progress along their European path, including in the context of our upcoming Presidency of the European Council next year, where we will continue to advocate for progress on Ukraine’s EU accession path.