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Seanad Éireann · 2026-02-24

Gnó an tSeanaid - Business of Seanad

CC Mark Daly · Administrative Panel

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Also today, we mark the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Since the full-scale invasion, thousands of civilians and those who have been fighting to defend Ukrainian national territory have died.

As you will know, since the beginning of the invasion the Ukrainian flag has flown in Leinster House at the main entrance and in the main reception area to remind us every day of the struggles you face against the invasion of your country by Russia. Today we mark the national day of Estonia, which knows all too well about the aggression of its nearest neighbour.

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estonia 5
invasion 5
ukraine 5
aggression 3
full-scale 2
ukrainian 3
independence 3
estonians 1
anniversary 2
ambassador 2
attacks 2
estonian 1

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CC Mark Daly this contribution

Before calling the Leader to outline the Order of Business, I note that today we celebrate Estonian independence day. Also today, we mark the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. We are honoured to have the Ukrainian ambassador to Ireland in the Distinguished Visitors Gallery. You are most welcome to the Chamber, ambassador. You have been working tirelessly on behalf of your country and its people over the past number of years.

You cannot take video footage when you are in the Chamber. You have been working very hard for us and for your people over the past number of years. You have been building relationships and bridges between Ireland and Ukraine. Since the full-scale invasion, thousands of civilians and those who have been fighting to defend Ukrainian national territory have died. As you will know, since the beginning of the invasion the Ukrainian flag has flown in Leinster House at the main entrance and in the main reception area to remind us every day of the struggles you face against the invasion of your country by Russia. Obviously, working with our European partners we hope that the conflict will end and will meet a fair and just resolution that is supported by all of the people of Ukraine.

Others facing Russia's aggression include the Baltic states. Today we mark the national day of Estonia, which knows all too well about the aggression of its nearest neighbour. It fought for its independence and secured it on 24 February 1918. Like Ireland, Estonia has a deep appreciation of culture and identity. Of course Estonia became a member of the European Union under Ireland's Presidency in 2004. Nearly 3,000 Estonians call Ireland home.

As two of our neighbours in Europe, but far away from us, you are still close to our hearts in terms of the many challenges you face when it comes to the Russian aggression that Ukraine has faced, and which we know Estonia faces on a daily basis, including online attacks and attacks by artificial intelligence that is trying to undermine government and democracy. Ambassadors, we are saddened that you have to be here on this anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine. We hope you will be here with us for happier occasions in the future. We commend Estonia on securing its independence and we work with you on making sure it remains a free and proud democracy and part of the European Union. Thank you very much.

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