Ukrainian MPs must address Oireachtas to document experience of war on Dublin visit – Ahearn

MPs from Ukraine are to visit Dublin where they will document their experiences of war and seek to garner support against Russia’s illegal invasion of their country, Fine Gael Senator Garret Ahearn has said.

Senator Ahearn has called upon the Cathaoirleach of the Seanad to extend an invitation to the group of MPs to speak in Leinster House when they visit Dublin in the coming weeks.

Senator Ahearn said: “The delegation of which I am part of, called United for Ukraine, visited Kyiv last week at the invitation of the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Ruslan Stefanchuk.

“The sole mission of the group is to deliver the current message of the Ukrainian Government to our own parliaments and to show our solidarity and support in response to the ongoing conflict.

“Visiting Bucha and Borodianka was a harrowing experience and one I will never forget. The people of Ukraine are incredibly resilient people who believe with determination that they will win this war against Russia.

“Mr Stefanchuk asked if I would convey his gratitude to the Irish people for their generosity in opening up their homes to Ukrainian citizens.

“The President of Ukraine addressed a joint sitting of our Houses last month. He along with all Ukrainian MPs have remained in their country to fight, while their own families and many of their citizens have fled.

“In recent weeks some Ukrainian MPs have travelled to European Union cities and Washington to reinforce the President’s message of freedom for all Ukrainian people.

“While on my visit to Kyiv, I invited those Ukrainian MPs to travel to Ireland. I am delighted to say they have accepted my invitation and plan to be in Dublin within the coming weeks.

“Ireland is a small country but holds significant influence within the European Union. I have asked the Cathaoirleach of the Seanad, Mark Daly, to invite the parliamentarians and give them an opportunity to address the Seanad while in Dublin.

“This would be a historic sitting and something I am sure which all members across the House would support,” Senator Ahearn added.