STATEMENT: Costello calls for further Russian Sanctions following meeting with Ukranian Ambassador.

Green Party TD for Dublin South-Central, and the Green Party Spokesperson for Justice, has called for the Irish Government explore closing ports to Russian ships as a follow on measure to closing our airspace, speaking following his meeting this morning with Ukrainian Ambassador Ms. Larysa Gerasko where he discussed the Russian invasion of Ukraine and how Ireland can best respond to support Ukrainian people.

Commenting on the matter, Deputy Costello said: “What we have seen in the last week has shocked the world. As a member of the European Union we are part of a pan-European response in terms of sanctions. We pushed for, and ultimately were successful in, securing agreement for the exclusion of Russian institutions from the SWIFT payment system. We need to now explore further what we can do on a national level.”

“Her Excellency Ms Gerasko spoke passionately about the spirit of the Ukrainian people and how we can respond to Russian attacks. We need to seriously examine these suggestions, including the exclusion of all Russian ships from our ports, as well as further humanitarian aid programmes for Ukraine. The carrying out of these measures would send a clear message of Ireland’s support and would act as an example for other European and world nations to follow.”