Irish Left & Sinn Féin vote against support for Ukraine – Burke

Minister for European Affairs Peter Burke has today strongly criticised the four Irish MEPs who continue to vote against support for Ukraine, thus conveying their implicit support for Russia and the illegal and abhorrent actions of Vladimir Putin.

“I completely condemn the position taken by four of our Irish MEPs today, voting against a vital aid package for Ukraine.

“The Irish people have shown huge compassion to Ukrainian citizens, thousands of whom have had their lives destroyed by Russia. Entire towns have been decimated, families torn apart and children abducted in broad daylight.

“As we enter the third year of this illegal war, the Taoiseach yesterday travelled to Paris to stand with other European leaders against the Kremlin and offer unequivocal Irish support again, in terms of humanitarian, political and non-lethal aid.

“People will remember the delays already caused to this package before Christmas, due to the leader of Hungary delaying his country’s support of the deal. However, this group of MEPs have today gone one step further and voted against the package, as approved unanimously by all 27 European leaders.

“This position is not new. Since the war in Ukraine has broken out, certain Irish MEPs have voted against all support for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia. Chris MacManus has also not been present for key vote against the Russian regime.

“The Irish public should be aware of these voting patterns ahead of the EU elections later this year. Sinn Fein has advocated a No vote in every European treaty put to the Irish public in our 50 year history, including actively campaigning against Ireland joining the EU.

“Ireland will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes,” Minister Burke said.