Immigrant Council statement on Ukrainian crisis
Like everyone, the Immigrant Council of Ireland have watched the unfolding of events in Ukraine with dismay and concern for the humanitarian impact of events there. We express our solidarity with the Ukrainian community here in Ireland. Our information support services are available for information and advice on issues such as visa applications, including up to date information on any visa waiver arrangements for Ukrainian nationals which the Irish government may implement in the coming days. The Immigrant Council calls upon the Irish Government to waive entry visa requirements for all Ukrainian family members of Irish citizens, EU nationals and Ukrainian nationals living in Ireland with immediate effect.
The displacement of persons from the crisis in Ukraine is a likely development for which members states of the European Union, including Ireland, must immediately begin to prepare. While at present the extent of that movement of people is impossible to assess, the issue of how Europe will respond to the needs of the people of Ukraine who seek protection within the EU must be firmly on the agenda of EU level discussions and planning. The response of Europe must be firmly grounded in humanitarian values and shared responsibility for offering sanctuary to those who flee violence and aggression. Ireland can play its part at European level by using its considerable influence to ensure that the humanitarian support of the Ukrainian people is to the forefront of international discussions in the coming days and weeks.