Ireland Pledges €25m To The Syria Crisis In 2019

The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Coveney has reiterated Ireland's support for those affected by the ongoing crisis in Syria, pledging a further €25 million in humanitarian assistance.

The money will help address pressing needs, bringing the state's contribution to the crisis to over €140m since 2012.

The Tánaiste said: "The conflict in Syria has created one of the worst humanitarian crises of our time, affecting both Syria and its neighbours. Over 11.7 million people in Syria are in need of humanitarian assistance, while over 5.6 million Syrian refugees are displaced in the region. Ireland remains committed to the critical life-saving response inside Syria and to the refugee response needs in neighbouring countries. Therefore, in 2019 we will disburse a further €25 million to the Syria Crisis.

"The roots of this humanitarian tragedy lie in conflict, and it is vital to bring this conflict to a close. Ireland fully supports the work of the UN Special Envoy and his efforts to bring an end to conflict, based on the 2012 Geneva Communiqué and UN Security Council Resolution 2254. We need a long term, sustainable solution to this conflict." 

Mr Coveney concluded: "Ireland also wishes to acknowledge the efforts of those countries, particularly the neighbouring countries of Turkey, Jordan and Lebanon, who have so generously hosted millions of Syrian refugees. Each of these countries, and their people, have extended a compassionate response to human need. It is our duty as an international community to show support and solidarity for their efforts."



(JG/CM)