Shane Moynihan (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
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143. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for an update on Ireland's engagement with international partners in response to the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Sudan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38440/25]

Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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The Government remains deeply concerned by the situation in Sudan. More than two years of conflict have resulted in a catastrophic humanitarian crisis. Over 14 million people have been forced to flee their homes and over 25 million people are in acute food insecurity, with some facing famine. Recent attacks on Port Sudan and the attacking of a UN convoy in North Darfur mark an escalation in hostilities.

Working with like-minded EU member states, Ireland has supported strong EU messaging on Sudan, emphasising the need for a ceasefire, humanitarian access, protection of civilians, and accountability for human rights abuses. Ireland initiated discussion on sanctions in 2023, which led to the establishment and implementation of the EU sanctions regime targeting both parties to the conflict and their backers. Ireland also initiated EU Council Conclusions on Sudan in October 2024, which condemned indiscriminate and direct targeting of civilians, called on parties to abide by their obligations under international law, and called for an immediate ceasefire and sustainable resolution of the conflict through dialogue.

Ireland has engaged with the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Kuwait on Sudan, including in official level bilateral political consultations in April. We have consistently stressed the importance of supporting efforts to restore civilian rule through a Sudanese-led process supported by international mediation.

At a May meeting of the EU-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Political Committee, Ireland, speaking on behalf of the EU, stressed the need to use every influence to prevent external actors providing arms to combatants and to unite in favour of peace.

Ireland is also working to support the Office of the EU Special Representative for the Horn of Africa in their efforts to engage with all parties to the conflict.

In 2024 Ireland provided €14 million in humanitarian and development assistance for Sudan and neighbouring countries affected by the conflict. This included funding channelled through UN partners and Irish NGOs, including support to Concern, GOAL and Trócaire.

So far in 2025, we have provided €5 million to the Sudan Humanitarian Fund, and €2.7 million to NGOs operating in Sudan.