2021 - Department of Foreign Affairs

Minister Byrne to attend meeting of the General Affairs Council

Press release

20 September 2021

Minister Byrne to attend meeting of the General Affairs Council

Minister Byrne welcomes the publication of Eurofound’s report on social factors

Press release

16 September 2021

Minister Byrne welcomes the publication of Eurofound’s report on “Social factors shaping optimism and pessimism among citizens”

Minister Byrne welcomes decision of President von der Leyen to make 2022 Year of the European Youth

Press release

15 September 2021

Minister Byrne welcomes the decision of President von der Leyen to make 2022 the Year of the European Youth

Statement on the 30th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Estonia

Statement

10 September 2021

On 10 September 2021, Estonia and Ireland celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. Ireland recognised Estonia’s re-independence on the 27 August 1991.

Statement by Minister Simon Coveney in response to the speech by DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson

Statement

09 September 2021

Responding to the speech by DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson this morning, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney T.D said: "We take unionist concerns in relation to the protocol seriously and we have consistently sought to listen and engage with those concerns, just as we have with the perspectives of everyone across Northern Ireland...

Minister Byrne to welcome his Czech counterpart, Deputy Foreign Minister for EU Affairs Aleš Chmelař

Press release

09 September 2021

The Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne TD, will welcome his Czech counterpart, Deputy Foreign Minister for EU Affairs Aleš Chmelař to Dublin today.

Minister for Foreign Affairs to chair UN Security Council Meeting on Afghanistan

Press release

08 September 2021

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Simon Coveney, T.D., will travel to New York today, 8 September, for a series of engagements related to Ireland’s Presidency of the United Nations Security Council.

Minister Simon Coveney on publication of documents in relation to the appointment of special envoy

Press release

06 September 2021

“My Department has today brought forward the publication of all documentation on the appointment of a Special Envoy for Freedom of Opinion and Expression. The files show extensive consideration of the envoy position as well as a complete timeline ahead of tomorrow’s meeting of the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence.

Minister for European Affairs visits Latvia and Estonia

Press release

06 September 2021

The Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, T.D., today (Monday 6 September) begins a three-day working visit to Latvia and Estonia, his first visit to these fellow EU Member States since he became Minister in July 2020. The visit will mark the thirtieth anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ireland and the Baltic States following the reestablishment of their independence in 1991.

Minister Byrne takes part in the European Forum Alpbach 2021

Press release

31 August 2021

The Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D., will travel to Austria this week where he will take part in the political programme of the European Forum Alpbach 2021 from 1-3 September.

Minister Brophy announces a further €1m funding for COVAX

Press release

31 August 2021

Minister for International Development and Diaspora Colm Brophy T.D. has announced a further €1m in funding for COVAX, the international facility for supporting equitable access to COVID-19 vaccinations globally.

Ireland and France agree Joint Plan of Action to strengthen relations

Press release

30 August 2021

Ireland and France have agreed a Joint Plan of Action (2021-2025) to strengthen and deepen relations between the two countries across a range of cultural, educational and political activities.

Statement by Minister Coveney Providing Situational Update on ECAT mission to

Statement

26 August 2021

Statement by Minister Coveney Providing Situational Update on Emergency Consular Aid Team mission to Kabul

Minister Simon Coveney approves Consular mission to Kabul airport

Press release

23 August 2021

An Emergency Consular Assistance Team (ECAT) is currently deploying to Hamid Karzai International Airport (HKIA) in Kabul, with a view to assisting the remaining Irish citizens who wish to evacuate from Afghanistan.

Minister Coveney to officially open Ireland’s Embassy to Ukraine

Press release

23 August 2021

On Monday 23 August the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney, T.D., will officially open Ireland’s Embassy to Ukraine as part of the Government’s Global Ireland Strategy to double our footprint on the world stage.

Emergency EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting on Afghanistan

Press release

17 August 2021

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Simon Coveney T.D. participated in an emergency meeting of EU Foreign Ministers today to discuss the situation in Afghanistan.

Government calls for an end to the violence in Afghanistan and announces more humanitarian visas

Statement

16 August 2021

Government calls for an end to the violence in Afghanistan and announces provision of additional humanitarian visas

Ireland to provide €500,000 in response to extreme food shortages in Madagascar

Announcement

02 August 2021

Ireland to provide €500,000 in response to extreme food shortages in Madagascar

Government agrees initiatives to further enhance Ireland’s global influence

Press release

27 July 2021

Today the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney TD, presented a range of initiatives to add to the Government’s Global Ireland programme.

Minister Coveney holds talks with Kenyan and Somali counterparts

Press release

23 July 2021

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney T.D., today held talks with the Kenyan President, Uhuru Kenyatta, and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Raychelle Omamo, in Mombasa.

Minister Byrne attends Informal Meeting of Ministers for European Affairs

Press release

23 July 2021

The Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D., will represent Ireland at the informal General Affairs Council meeting hosted by the Slovenian Presidency in Slovenia.

Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs on the UK Government Paper on the Protocol

Statement

21 July 2021

Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs on the UK Government Paper on the Protocol

Minister Byrne welcomes Re-Open EU App

Press release

19 July 2021

Minister Byrne welcomes Re-Open EU App with information that enables people to plan and safely avail of their travel in the EU and the EEA.

Minister Coveney welcomes the 2021 Frederick Douglass Global Fellows to Ireland

Press release

19 July 2021

Minister Coveney welcomes the 2021 Frederick Douglass Global Fellows to Ireland Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence, Simon Coveney, TD, has warmly welcomed the Frederick Douglass Global Fellows to Ireland as they commence their study programme: “Transformational Leadership Across Cultures.”

A Irlanda torna-se Observador Associado da Comunidade dos Países de Língua Portuguesa (CPLP)

Press release

17 July 2021

A Irlanda torna-se Observador Associado da Comunidade dos Países de Língua Portuguesa (CPLP) O Ministro dos Negócios Estrangeiros, Simon Coveney, saudou hoje a decisão da Comunidade dos Países de Língua Portuguesa (CPLP) em aceitar a Irlanda como Observador Associado.

Ireland becomes an Associate Observer to the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP)

Press release

17 July 2021

Ireland becomes an Associate Observer to the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP). The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney T.D., today welcomed the decision of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) to accept Ireland as an Associate Observer.

Expert Advisory Panel established for the Global Ireland Media Challenge Fund

Announcement

16 July 2021

Expert Advisory Panel established for the Global Ireland Media Challenge Fund

Minister Coveney meets his Slovenian counterpart, Foreign Minister Dr. Anže Logar

Press release

15 July 2021

Minister Coveney meets his Slovenian counterpart, Foreign Minister Dr. Anže Logar

Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs on UK Government Legacy Proposals

Statement

14 July 2021

We have agreed to have a process of intensive engagement with the British Government and the NI parties to find a collective way forward on legacy issues and that should be the focus now.

Call for nominations for 2021 Presidential Distinguished Service Award announced by Minister Brophy

Press release

14 July 2021

Call for nominations for 2021 Presidential Distinguished Service Award for the Irish announced by Minister Brophy

Minister Coveney meets Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, Belarusian democratic opposition leader

Press release

14 July 2021

Belarusian democratic opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya is visiting Ireland from 13-16 July at the invitation of the Government. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya was Alexander Lukashenko’s challenger during the fraudulent August 2020 Presidential election after which she was forced into exile in neighbouring Lithuania.

UN Human Rights Council unanimously adopts Irish-led Resolution on Civil Society Space

Press release

12 July 2021

UN Human Rights Council unanimously adopts Irish-led Resolution on Civil Society Space

Minister Byrne travels to Spain

Press release

11 July 2021

The Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D., travels to Madrid on Monday 12 July to meet with Juan González-Barba Pera, Spanish Secretary of State for EU and to address Spain’s Joint Parliamentary Committee on the EU, including the Committee’s Chair, Deputy Susana Sumelzo Jordán.

Minister Coveney welcomes agreement on Syrian cross border humanitarian operations

Press release

09 July 2021

On 9 July the Security Council extended the mandate for the cross border humanitarian operation between Turkey and North-West Syria for a period of twelve months, subject to a report from the UN Secretary General at the six month mark. Ireland and Norway have led the negotiations on the renewal of the mandate.

Minister Byrne to visit Rome for bilateral meetings

Press release

08 July 2021

The Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D., is visiting Rome for a series of meetings today (8th July), including bilateral discussions with his Italian counterpart, Mr. Vincenzo Amendola, Under Secretary of State for European Affairs.

Minister Coveney announces humanitarian assistance for Lebanon

Press release

06 July 2021

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney, TD, today announced an additional €1 million for the World Food Programme (WFP) to provide assistance for the poorest and most vulnerable Lebanese households. Minister Coveney made the announcement during his visit to Lebanon.

Minister Coveney welcomes significant progress on Protocol issues

Press release

30 June 2021

The Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney TD warmly welcomed the announcement by the European Commission on the extension of the grace period for chilled meats and range of other important issues around the implementation of the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Minister Simon Coveney T.D. addresses the UN Security Council on Cyber Security

Press release

29 June 2021

Addressing an online meeting at the UN Security Council Open Debate on Cyber Security, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney T.D., noted the vital role of information and communications technologies, while highlighting the increased global vulnerability to malicious cyber activity.

Min Coveney meets with Director General of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons

Press release

29 June 2021

On the 29th of June 2020, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney T.D. met with the Director General of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, Fernando Arias.

JOINT COMMUNIQUÉ OF THE BRITISH-IRISH INTERGOVERNMENTAL CONFERENCE

Press release

24 June 2021

The Government of Ireland was represented by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD, and the Minister for Justice, Mrs Heather Humphreys TD. The Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was represented by Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Rt Hon Brandon Lewis MP, and Robin Walker MP, Minister of State at the Northern Ireland Office.

Minister Thomas Byrne TD Participates in 22 June General Affairs Council Hearings

Press release

22 June 2021

As part of his attendance at the meeting of the General Affairs Council in Luxembourg on Tuesday 22 June, Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, T.D. participated in an Article 7 Treaty on European Union (TEU) hearings in relation to Hungary’s adherence to EU values and rule of law issues in Poland.

Ireland Co-signs Benelux Declaration on LGBTQI+ Rights in Hungary at 22 June General Affairs Council

Press release

22 June 2021

Ireland has supported a declaration by the Benelux Countries that expresses grave concern regarding the Hungarian Parliament’s adoption of amendments to a bill that discriminate against the LGBTQI+ community in Hungary.

Minister Coveney addresses the UN Security Council on the situation in Afghanistan

Press release

22 June 2021

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney T.D., spoke today at the UN Security Council High Level Quarterly Debate on Afghanistan. The meeting focused on the situation in Afghanistan and its implications for international peace and security, and follows the release on 15 June of the UN Secretary-General’s latest quarterly report on this issue.

Minister Byrne to attend meeting of the General Affairs Council

Press release

21 June 2021

The Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, T.D., will join his ministerial colleagues at a meeting of the General Affairs Council (GAC) in Luxembourg on Tuesday 22 June.

Minister Brophy approves award of 180 fellowships to candidates from Irish Aid partner countries

Press release

21 June 2021

The Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy, T.D., today approved the award of 180 Irish Aid fellowships.

Minister Coveney to attend meeting of EU Foreign Affairs Ministers in Luxembourg

Press release

20 June 2021

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Simon Coveney T.D. will attend a meeting of EU Foreign Affairs Ministers in Luxembourg on Monday, 21 June.

Ministers Coveney and Byrne welcome Brexit Adjustment Reserve

Press release

17 June 2021

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney, T.D., and Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, T.D welcomed the announcement today (17 July) that the Council of the EU and the European Parliament reached agreement on the €5 billion Brexit Adjustment Reserve.

Minister Byrne expresses concern regarding new Hungarian anti-LGBTQI law

Press release

17 June 2021

The Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D. has expressed his deep concerns regarding the anti-LGBTQI+ aspects of a new law passed by the Hungarian Parliament on 15 June.

New Ambassadors present Credentials

Press release

17 June 2021

Their Excellencies, the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey, and the Ambassador of the Canada presented their Letters of Credence to the President at Áras an Uachtaráin today.

Minister Brophy announces further €2 million in humanitarian assistance for the crisis in Venezuela

Press release

17 June 2021

Minister of State for Overseas Development and the Diaspora, Colm Brophy TD, today expressed his grave concern about the humanitarian situation caused by the Venezuelan migrant crisis and pledged €2m in humanitarian assistance from Ireland towards the international response to the crisis, a doubling of last year’s grant.

Min Coveney welcomes agreement to nominate FM and dFM to NI Executive

Statement

17 June 2021

Min Coveney welcomes agreement to nominate FM and dFM to NI Executive

Minister Brophy announces €2 million in funding in response to humanitarian crises

Press release

16 June 2021

Minister of State for Overseas Development and Diaspora, Colm Brophy, TD, today announced a contribution of €2 million in response to humanitarian crises in Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, and Niger.

Minister Byrne welcomes Minister Byrne welcomes appointment of National Citizens’ Representative.

Press release

16 June 2021

The Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne TD, has welcomed the appointment of Ms Noelle O’Connell as National Citizens’ Representative for the Conference of the Future of Europe.

Ireland to host two-day meeting of OECD Ministers to respond to COVID-related rise in global poverty

Press release

15 June 2021

Ireland will this week host a two-day meeting of ministers from across the OECD to discuss responses to a significant rise in global poverty linked to COVID-19.

Over 30 Global Bloomsday events hosted by Department of Foreign Affairs

Press release

15 June 2021

To mark Bloomsday 2021, More than 30 of Ireland’s Embassies and Consulates are marking Bloomsday 2021 with a diverse range of physical and virtual events in collaboration with local partners.

Min Coveney visits the Gulf to hold discussion on a number of key issues for the UN Security Council

Press release

14 June 2021

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence Simon Coveney T.D will visit the Gulf on 14-16 June, to hold discussions with countries of the region on a number of key issues for the UN Security Council.

Minister Byrne Grows Ireland’s Critical Connections with Smaller EU States

Press release

11 June 2021

The Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D. focuses on enhancing the Irish connection with other EU member states - Slovenia and Austria this week.

Minister Brophy announces €13.2m in humanitarian funding

Press release

10 June 2021

Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy, TD, today announced a contribution of €10 million to the UN’s Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), a global humanitarian fund that assists people trapped in humanitarian crises

Minister Brophy condemns attack on humanitarian demining workers in Afghanistan

News

09 June 2021

Minister Brophy condemns attack on humanitarian demining workers in Afghanistan

Min Coveney announces new University of Cambridge Lectureship in Modern Irish

Press release

04 June 2021

Min Coveney announces new University of Cambridge Lectureship in Modern Irish

Minister Coveney launches the Government’s Strategy for the Nordic Region

Press release

02 June 2021

Minister Coveney launches the Government’s Strategy for the Nordic Region

Announcement of €10 million in core funding to the International Committee of the Red Cross

Press release

01 June 2021

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney, TD, and Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy, TD, today announced a contribution of €10 million in core funding to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

Minister Byrne Participates in Discussions on Implementation of EU Digital COVID Certificate

Press release

01 June 2021

Minister Byrne Participates in Informal Ministerial Discussions on Implementation of EU Digital COVID Certificate

Minister Coveney holds discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi

Press release

01 June 2021

Minister Coveney holds discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi

Statement by Minister Simon Coveney T.D. on developments in Mali

Statement

25 May 2021

Statement by Minister Simon Coveney T.D. on developments in Mali

Minister Coveney meets with Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Press release

25 May 2021

Simon Coveney, TD, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, met today with the Hungarian Foreign Minister, Mr. Péter Szijjártó, during his visit to Ireland.

Virtual events across Ireland to celebrate Africa Day 2021

Press release

24 May 2021

Africa Day (25 May) will be celebrated online this year, with virtual events taking place across the country. Twenty-three local authorities and their community partners are hosting a diverse range of virtual activities, from storytelling to traditional crafts, musical performances to webinars.

Minister Brophy announces Irish Aid funding of over €3.6m for Dublin civil society organisations

Press release

20 May 2021

The Minister for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Mr. Colm Brophy, T.D., today announced funding of over €3.6 million for five Dublin-based organisations to implement development projects overseas. A Partnership with Africa, Aidlink, Christian Blind Mission Ireland, Irish League of Credit Unions Foundation and Proudly Made in Africa will receive grants from Irish Aid’s Civil Society Fund.

Minister Coveney announces funding of €1.85 million to Cork organisations

Press release

20 May 2021

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Simon Coveney, T.D., today announced €1.85 million in funding for three Cork based organisations to implement development projects overseas. Brighter Communities Worldwide, Serve in Solidarity and University College Cork will receive grants from Irish Aid’s Civil Society Fund.

Minister Coveney and Minister of State Brophy announce funding for civil society organisations.

Press release

20 May 2021

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Simon Coveney T.D., and The Minister for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Mr. Colm Brophy, T.D., today announced funding of over €9 million to 14 civil society organisations to carry out development projects overseas, including €6 million in grants to Irish organisations.

Statement by Minister Coveney on Visit of the French Foreign Minister and European Minister

Statement

20 May 2021

Statement by Minister Coveney on Visit of the French Foreign Minister and European Minister

Min Coveney announces 1.5 million in humanitarian funding for people in Gaza

News

19 May 2021

Min Coveney announces 1.5 million in humanitarian funding for people in Gaza

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council meeting on Peace and Security in Africa

Press release

19 May 2021

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council meeting on Peace and Security in Africa

Min Brophy announces Ireland’s commitment to increase funding for Global Partnership for Education

Press release

19 May 2021

Colm Brophy, T.D., Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, today announced Ireland’s renewed commitment to the vision of a quality education for every child, pledging €60 million to the Global Partnership for Education for 2021-2025.

Min Byrne announces grants for 2021 Communicating Europe Initiative scheme

Press release

18 May 2021

Min Byrne announces grants for 2021 Communicating Europe Initiative scheme

Minister Byrne joins Informal Meeting of Ministers for European Affairs

Press release

17 May 2021

Minister Byrne joins Informal Meeting of Ministers for European Affairs

Min Coveney statement to UNSC on the situation in the Middle East

Statement

16 May 2021

Min Coveney statement to UNSC on the situation in the Middle East

Minister Byrne launches Irish programme of events as part of the Conference on the Future of Europe

Press release

13 May 2021

The Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, T.D., has today launched the Irish programme of events for the Conference on the Future of Europe in Ireland at a special online event broadcast from Iveagh House, Dublin.

Minister Thomas Byrne welcomes poll showing high public support in Ireland for the EU

Press release

13 May 2021

The Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D., has welcomed the results of the 2021 Eurobarometer poll for Ireland, published by the European Commission Representation in Ireland, which showed continuing high levels of public support for, and trust in the EU.

Minister Byrne gives Ireland’s perspective on the EU-UK relationship at Centre for European Reform

Press release

12 May 2021

Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, T.D, addressed an audience of leading thinkers, international affairs experts and journalists this afternoon on Ireland’s views on the future of the EU-UK relationship.

Min Coveney announces Irelands 2021 contribution to the Trust Fund for Victims

News

12 May 2021

Min Coveney announces Ireland’s 2021 contribution to the Trust Fund for Victims

Min Coveney on the findings of the Coroner in the Ballymurphy inquest

Statement

11 May 2021

Min Coveney on the findings of the Coroner in the Ballymurphy inquest

Minister Byrne to attend meeting of the General Affairs Council

Press release

10 May 2021

The Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, T.D., will discuss Covid-19 Coordination and the Conference on the Future of Europe, at a meeting of the General Affairs Council (GAC) in Brussels on Tuesday 11 May.

Minister Byrne attends virtual launch of the Conference on the Future of Europe in Strasbourg

Press release

09 May 2021

The Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, T.D., attended the virtual/in person hybrid official launch of the Conference on the Future of Europe in Strasbourg.

Government confirms funding to HOPE Foundation hospital in Kolkata to cope with COVID-19

Press release

09 May 2021

As India battles with the record surge in COVID-19, the Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed funding for the Cork-based HOPE Foundation, to support running costs of their hospital in Kolkata.

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council meeting on Multilateralism

Press release

07 May 2021

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council meeting on Multilateralism

Minister Thomas Byrne congratulates primary schools celebrating 10 years promoting EU in classrooms

Press release

07 May 2021

Taoiseach Micheál Martin and European Affairs Minister, Thomas Byrne, congratulate primary schools celebrating 10 years promoting EU in classrooms

Minister Coveney meets with Secretary of State for Northern Ireland-Joint Statement

Statement

05 May 2021

Minister Coveney meets with Secretary of State for Northern Ireland-Joint Statement

A Career for EU: Minister Byrne launches Ireland’s new EU careers strategy

Press release

05 May 2021

A Career for EU: Minister Byrne launches Ireland’s new EU careers strategy

Ireland responds to COVID-19 surge in India

Press release

05 May 2021

Ireland responds to COVID-19 surge in India

Statement by Minister Coveney on postponement of Palestinian elections

Statement

30 April 2021

Statement by Minister Coveney on postponement of Palestinian elections

Minister Brophy announces over €21 million in Overseas Development Funding for Trócaire

Press release

28 April 2021

The Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy, T.D., today announced over €21 million in Irish Aid funding to Trócaire for its development and humanitarian work overseas, as well as for public engagement and development education work in Ireland.

Minister Coveney and Minister Byrne welcome final steps in ratifying the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation

Press release

28 April 2021

Minister Coveney and Minister Byrne welcome final steps in ratifying the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement

Minister Coveney expresses condolences on death of Irish national in Burkina Faso

Statement

28 April 2021

Minister Coveney expresses condolences on death of Irish national in Burkina Faso

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council meeting on the Protection of Civilians

Press release

27 April 2021

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council meeting on the Protection of Civilians

Minister Coveney announces €200,000 in response to St. Vincent and the Grenadines volcanic eruption

Press release

22 April 2021

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and for Defence, Simon Coveney, TD, today announced €200,000 in Irish Aid funding in response to the volcanic eruption on St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Minister Brophy announces Irish Aid funding of €10,700,000 for GOAL

Press release

21 April 2021

The Minister for International Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy, T.D., today announced €10.7 million in Irish Aid funding to GOAL.

Minister Brophy hosts final on-line Town Hall on new Irish Aid Development Education Strategy

Press release

21 April 2021

The Minister for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy, T.D., today led the third of three on-line Town Hall meetings which will help shape a new Irish Aid strategy for greater public engagement on such global issues as climate change, migration and hunger.

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council meeting on Co-operation with Regional Organisations

Press release

19 April 2021

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council meeting on Co-operation with Regional Organisations

Minister Byrne welcomes launch of the Multilingual Digital Platform for the Conference on the Future

Press release

19 April 2021

Minister Byrne welcomes launch of the Multilingual Digital Platform for the Conference on the Future of Europe

Minister Brophy announces €27 million Irish Aid funding for Concern Worldwide

Press release

16 April 2021

The Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Colm Brophy, TD, today announced €27,139,040 in Irish Aid funding to Concern Worldwide (Concern) for its development and humanitarian work overseas, as well as for public engagement and development education work in Ireland.

Minister Coveney launches new human rights guidance for business enterprises

Press release

15 April 2021

Minister Coveney launches new human rights guidance for business enterprises

Minister Brophy launches flagship UN report highlighting the importance of women’s bodily autonomy

Press release

14 April 2021

Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy T.D., today launched the UNFPA 2021 State of World Population report.

Minister Coveney begins visit to London

Press release

14 April 2021

Minister Coveney begins visit to London

Ireland and ADB working together for a green post COVID-19 recovery for Small Island States

Press release

14 April 2021

The Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy TD, and Asian Development Bank (ADB) Vice President, Ahmed Saeed, today co-hosted a virtual consultation with leaders from the small island states of the Pacific aimed at preparing for a sustainable post COVID-19 recovery.

Statement by Minister Coveney on the report into the use of chemical weapons in Saraqib, Syria

Statement

13 April 2021

Statement by Minister Coveney on the release of the report into the use of chemical weapons in Saraqib, Syria

Minister Coveney Addresses the UN Security Council on the Issue of Mines

Press release

08 April 2021

Minister Coveney Addresses the UN Security Council on the Issue of Mines

Minister Colm Brophy discusses global issues with 150 youth representatives

Press release

07 April 2021

Minister Colm Brophy discusses global issues with 150 youth representatives. Outcomes from Virtual Town Hall meetings will feed into a new Irish Aid Strategy for Development Education and Global Citizenship.

Statement from the Minister for Health and the Minister for Foreign Affairs

Statement

01 April 2021

Statement from the Minister for Health and the Minister for Foreign Affairs

Minister Coveney announces pledge of €23 million to Syria Crisis

Press release

30 March 2021

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney, TD, today pledged a further €23 million in humanitarian assistance from Ireland in response to the Syria crisis in 2021. This brings Ireland’s response to the crisis since 2012 to more than €192 million—our largest ever response to a single crisis.

Minister Brophy to participate in Generation Equality Forum, Mexico City

Press release

29 March 2021

Minister Brophy to participate in Generation Equality Forum, Mexico City

Statement by Minister Coveney at UN Security Council Open Debate on humanitarian situation in Syria

Statement

29 March 2021

Statement by Minister Coveney at UN Security Council Open Debate on the humanitarian situation in Syria

Statement by Min. Brophy on boosting Irish Aid funding for Irish NGO’s combatting Ebola threat

Press release

29 March 2021

In response to the Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Guinea, Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy, T.D., has announced €350,941 in Irish Aid funding for GOAL, Plan International Ireland and World Vision Ireland to support efforts by communities and national governments to control the outbreaks.

Minister Simon Coveney addresses the UN Security Council on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria

Press release

29 March 2021

Minister Simon Coveney addresses the UN Security Council on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria

Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney on Armed Forces Day violence in Myanmar

Statement

27 March 2021

Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney T.D. on Armed Forces Day violence in Myanmar

Min. Brophy announces Irish Aid support to Humanitarian Response to Fires in Rohingya Refugee Camp

Press release

24 March 2021

In response to the fires in the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy, T.D., today announced €100,000 in Irish Aid funding for Concern Worldwide to support efforts to address the crisis.

Minister of State Brophy announces Irish Aid funding for community organisations

Press release

24 March 2021

Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy TD, today announced €1.48 million in Irish Aid funding to 28 organisations working in communities across Ireland to enable public engagement on global issues, including climate change, hunger and injustice.

Minister Byrne joins Informal Meeting of Ministers for European Affairs

Press release

23 March 2021

Minister Byrne joins Informal Meeting of Ministers for European Affairs

Minister Byrne holds talks with key Commissioners in Brussels on Covid-19 and Rule of Law

Press release

22 March 2021

Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, T.D, visited Brussels on Monday 22 March for a series of meetings with members of the European Commission. Among the issues discussed were the continuing challenges posed by Covid-19 and the Rule of Law.

Min Coveney speaks with DG of the International Atomic Energy Agency

Press release

18 March 2021

Minister Coveney speaks with Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi

Joint statement by Ministers Coveney and Byrne in support of the people of Belarus

Statement

18 March 2021

Joint statement by Ministers Coveney and Byrne in support of the people of Belarus

Minister Simon Coveney announces programme of global St. Patrick’s Day events

Press release

16 March 2021

Minister Simon Coveney announces programme of global St. Patrick’s Day events

Min Byrne addresses Ibec Brussels’ online St. Patrick’s Day event

News

16 March 2021

Min Byrne addresses Ibec Brussels’ online St. Patrick’s Day event

Min Coveney announces funding of 6 million to UN Agency for Palestine Refugees

News

16 March 2021

Min Coveney announces funding of 6 million to UN Agency for Palestine Refugees

New Ambassadors present Credentials

News

15 March 2021

New Ambassadors present Credentials

Min Coveney welcomes appointment of next Secretary General of the OECD

News

15 March 2021

Min Coveney welcomes appointment of next Secretary General of the OECD

Min Coveney welcomes Council of Europe Decision on NI legacy issues

News

12 March 2021

Min Coveney welcomes Council of Europe Decision on NI legacy issues

Statement by Minister Coveney at UN Security Council Debate on Food Security

Statement

11 March 2021

Statement by Minister Simon Coveney at High-Level UN Security Council Open Debate on Maintenance of International Peace and Security

Minister for Foreign Affairs addresses UN Security Council meeting on Conflict and Food Security

Press release

11 March 2021

Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney addresses UN Security Council meeting on Conflict and Food Security

Minister Coveney and VP of the European Commission Šefčovič meet with Friends of Ireland Caucus

Press release

10 March 2021

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney, T.D., and Vice President of the European Commission, Maroš Šefčovič, met today with the Friends of Ireland Caucus in the US Congress. The meeting was an opportunity for the Minister and VP Šefčovič to brief the Caucus on the latest EU-UK developments.

Government approves nominations of new Ambassadors and Consuls General

Press release

09 March 2021

On the recommendation of the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney T.D., the Government today approved a number of Ambassadorial nominations, subject to agreement by the receiving States.

Minister Coveney welcomes the establishment of the IARDC and the Appointment of Mr Tom Arnold

Press release

09 March 2021

Minister Coveney welcomes the establishment of the IARDC and the Appointment of Mr Tom Arnold

Minister Coveney launches virtual St. Patrick’s Day programme

News

09 March 2021

Minister Coveney launches virtual St. Patrick’s Day programme

International Women’s Day - Minister Brophy to co-host girls' education roundtable discussion

Press release

08 March 2021

Colm Brophy, T.D., Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and the Diaspora will tomorrow co-host a roundtable discussion on girls’ education with Alice Albright, CEO of the Global Partnership for Education (GPE).

Meetings between Minister Coveney and the President and Foreign Minister of Iran

Press release

07 March 2021

Minister Coveney met the President of Iran, Dr. Hassan Rouhani and Foreign Minister, Dr. Javad Zarif today in Tehran. Discussions focused on the Iranian nuclear deal, the JCPOA, as well as regional issues and Ireland-Iran bilateral relations in advance of the re-opening of an Irish diplomatic presence in Tehran.

Visit of Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence Simon Coveney to Iran

Press release

06 March 2021

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Simon Coveney, T.D., will visit Iran on 7 March. He is set to meet with President Rouhani and Minister for Foreign Affairs Zarif.

Min Byrne announces €100k available through Communicating Europe Initiative

News

04 March 2021

Min Byrne announces €100k available through Communicating Europe Initiative

Min Byrne announces €100k available through Communicating Europe Initiative

News

04 March 2021

Min Byrne announces €100k available through Communicating Europe Initiative

Statement by Minister Coveney on UK announcement on Ireland and Northern Ireland Protocol

Statement

03 March 2021

Statement by Minister Coveney on UK announcement on Ireland and Northern Ireland Protocol

Minister Brophy reaches out to Caribbean and African island states for diaspora discussion

Press release

03 March 2021

Minister Brophy reaches out to Caribbean and African island states for diaspora discussion

Statement by Minister for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora on EHRC actions

Statement

02 March 2021

Statement by Minister for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora on EHRC actions

Minister Coveney Announces Re-establishment of an Irish Diplomatic Presence in Iran

Press release

02 March 2021

Minister Coveney Announces Re-establishment of an Irish Diplomatic Presence in Iran

Ireland's bid to become an Observer to the Arctic Council

Event

01 March 2021

Keynote address by Simon Coveney, T.D., Minister for Foreign Affairs and for Defence

Minister Coveney announces further €5 million in humanitarian assistance for the crisis in Yemen

Press release

01 March 2021

Minister Coveney today pledged a further €5 million in humanitarian assistance from Ireland for the crisis in Yemen. Minister Coveney made the pledge at the 2021 High Level Pledging Event for the Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen, convened by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the Governments of Sweden and Switzerland.

Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne makes virtual visit to Great Britain

Press release

24 February 2021

Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, is undertaking a virtual visit to Great Britain to engage with UK interlocutors, including Ministers, MPs and thinktanks. The programme is an opportunity to discuss British-Irish ties, the future of the EU-UK relationship and realising the potential of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney addresses UN Security Council meeting on Climate

Press release

23 February 2021

Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney addresses UN Security Council meeting on Climate and Security

United Nations Security Council Open Debate on Addressing Climate Related Risks

Statement

23 February 2021

United Nations Security Council Open Debate on Addressing Climate Related Risks to International Peace and Security

Minister Byrne to join Informal Meeting of Ministers for European Affairs

Press release

23 February 2021

The Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, T.D., will exchange views with his counterparts on EU-UK relations, at a videoconference meeting of Ministers for European Affairs today.

Minister Brophy announces Irish Aid support for COVID-19 vaccines in developing countries

Press release

19 February 2021

Colm Brophy, T.D., Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and the Diaspora, today announced an additional €5 million in Irish Aid funding for the global health response to COVID-19, to enable developing countries access vaccines.

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council at meeting on COVID-19

Press release

17 February 2021

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council at meeting on COVID-19

Minister Brophy launches consultation process for for Development Education

News

15 February 2021

Minister Brophy launches consultation process for for Development Education

New Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court Elected

News

13 February 2021

New Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court Elected

Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs on coup in Myanmar

Statement

11 February 2021

Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs on coup in Myanmar

Min Byrne meets with French and German counterparts to discuss Brexit

News

11 February 2021

Min Byrne meets with French and German counterparts to discuss Brexit

Minister Simon Coveney Agrees Second Joint Plan of Action for Enhanced Cooperation with Germany

Press release

11 February 2021

Minister Simon Coveney Agrees Second Joint Plan of Action for Enhanced Cooperation with Germany

إيرلندا ترشح فيرغال جاينور للانتخاب لمنصب المدعي العام للمحكمة الجنائية الدولية

News

10 February 2021

إيرلندا ترشح فيرغال جاينور للانتخاب لمنصب المدعي العام للمحكمة الجنائية الدولية

Irlanda nomina a Fergal Gaynor para su elección como Fiscal de la Corte Penal Internacional

Press release

10 February 2021

Irlanda nomina a Fergal Gaynor para su elección como Fiscal de la Corte Penal Internacional

L’Irlande désigne Fergal Gaynor à l’élection du Procureur de la Cour pénale internationale

Press release

10 February 2021

L’Irlande désigne Fergal Gaynor à l’élection du Procureur de la Cour pénale internationale

Ireland nominates Fergal Gaynor for election as ICC Prosecutor

Press release

09 February 2021

Ireland nominates Fergal Gaynor for election as ICC Prosecutor

Minister Byrne on the NI Protocol at the Oireachtas Joint Committee

News

09 February 2021

Minister Byrne on the NI Protocol at the Oireachtas Joint Committee

Minister Coveney and Minister of State Byrne Mark Day of Solidarity With Belarus

Press release

05 February 2021

Minister Coveney and Minister of State Byrne Mark Day of Solidarity With Belarus

Statement by Minister Simon Coveney on Israeli actions at Humsa Al Bqai’a

Statement

05 February 2021

Statement by Minister Simon Coveney on Israeli actions at Humsa Al Bqai’a

Ireland and Lithuania address fight against COVID-19 and post-Brexit landscape

Press release

04 February 2021

Ireland and Lithuania address fight against COVID-19 and post-Brexit landscape

Statement by Minister Simon Coveney on the Extension of the New START Treaty

Statement

03 February 2021

Statement by Minister Simon Coveney on the Extension of the New START Treaty

Statement on the sentencing of Alexei Navalny

Statement

03 February 2021

Statement on the sentencing of Alexei Navalny

Joint statement following Quad meeting on Covid-19

News

01 February 2021

Joint statement following Quad meeting on Covid-19

Statement by Minister Coveney on reported coup in Myanmar

News

01 February 2021

Statement by Minister Coveney on reported coup in Myanmar

Minister Brophy commits to deepening Irish Aid partnership with UN Women

Press release

29 January 2021

Minister Brophy commits to deepening Irish Aid partnership with UN Women

Department of Foreign Affairs marks St Brigid’s Day with global programme of events

Press release

29 January 2021

Department of Foreign Affairs marks St Brigid’s Day with global programme of events celebrating the creativity and talent of Irish women

Minister Coveney announces 1/3 increase in Irish support for UN Peacebuilding Fund

Press release

26 January 2021

Minister Coveney announces 1/3 increase in Irish support for UN Peacebuilding Fund

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council at Debate on the Situation in the Middle East

Press release

26 January 2021

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council at the Quarterly Open Debate on the Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question

Ireland plays leadership role to ensure climate funds reach those most in need

Press release

26 January 2021

Ireland plays leadership role to ensure climate funds reach those most in need

Minister Coveney to attend meeting of EU Foreign Affairs Ministers

Press release

25 January 2021

Minister Coveney to attend meeting of EU Foreign Affairs Ministers

Minister Byrne participates in UN Security Council Arria Formula Meeting on Media Freedom in Belarus

Press release

22 January 2021

Minister of State Byrne participates in UN Security Council Arria formula meeting on Media Freedom in Belarus

Minister Coveney welcomes the entry into force of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons

Press release

22 January 2021

Minister Coveney welcomes the entry into force of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons

Minister Byrne welcomes Europe for Citizens programme funding for Irish projects

Press release

20 January 2021

Minister for European Affairs Thomas Byrne welcomes Europe for Citizens programme funding for Irish projects

Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney on the detention of Alexei Navalny in Moscow

Statement

18 January 2021

Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney on the detention of Alexei Navalny in Moscow

Minister Thomas Byrne welcomes new direct route between Dublin and Amsterdam

Press release

18 January 2021

Minister Thomas Byrne welcomes new direct route between Dublin and Amsterdam

Minister Byrne to join Informal Meeting of Ministers for European Affairs

Press release

18 January 2021

Minister Byrne to join Informal Meeting of Ministers for European Affairs

Minister Brophy launches Samaritans Freephone helpline for Irish diaspora in Canada and Australia

Press release

18 January 2021

Minister Colm Brophy launches Samaritans Freephone helpline for Irish diaspora in Canada and Australia

Statement by the Minister for Foreign Affairs on settlement announcements in the West Bank

Statement

17 January 2021

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney, T.D. disappointed at the announcement by Israeli authorities regarding a further 800 housing units within Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

Minister Coveney expresses condolences on the death of Father Michael Kelly

Press release

15 January 2021

Minister Simon Coveney has expressed his condolences to the family of Father Michael Kelly, an outstanding advocate for people living with HIV, following his death in Zambia.

Ireland and Scotland publish Bilateral Review of future relationship

Press release

14 January 2021

Ireland and Scotland publish Bilateral Review of future relationship

Min Byrne to speak at online European Movement Ireland event launching new Portuguese Presidency

Press release

14 January 2021

Minister Byrne to speak at online European Movement Ireland event launching the new Portuguese Presidency

Ministers Coveney and Byrne welcome €1.05 bil allocation to Ireland from Brexit Adjustment Reserve

Press release

13 January 2021

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney & Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne welcome allocation of €1.05 billion to Ireland from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve

Government extends requirement for pre departure Covid-19 testing to all countries

Press release

13 January 2021

Government extends requirement for pre departure Covid-19 testing to all countries

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council on Challenges of Counter-Terrorism

Press release

12 January 2021

Minister Coveney addresses UN Security Council on Challenges of Counter-Terrorism

Statement following the New Decade, New Approach Implementation Review Meeting

Statement

11 January 2021

Statement following the New Decade, New Approach Implementation Review Meeting

Joint Statement by the Ministers for Foreign Affairs and Agriculture, Food and the Marine on Rockall

Statement

08 January 2021

Joint Statement by the Ministers for Foreign Affairs and Agriculture, Food and the Marine on Rockall

Minister Brophy presents Aronnya Khan Zakaria from Limerick with Science for Development Award

Press release

08 January 2021

Minister Brophy presents Aronnya Khan Zakaria from Castletroy College Limerick with Science for Development Award at BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2021

Statement by Minister for European Affairs Byrne to UN Security Council on Maintaining Peace

Statement

06 January 2021

Statement by Minister for European Affairs Byrne to UN Security Council Open Debate on the ‘Challenges of Maintaining Peace and Security in Fragile Contexts’

Statement by Minister Coveney on the Al-Ula Declaration

News

06 January 2021

Statement by Minister Coveney on the Al-Ula Declaration

Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney TD, on the death of Sir Brian Urquhart

Statement

05 January 2021

Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney TD, on the death of Sir Brian Urquhart

Ireland takes up seat on UN Security Council for 2021-2022 term

Press release

01 January 2021

Ireland takes up seat on UN Security Council for 2021-2022 term

Minister Coveney meets with Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Press release

25 May 2021

Simon Coveney, TD, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, met today with the Hungarian Foreign Minister, Mr. Péter Szijjártó, during his visit to Ireland.

Contact Details

Email the Press Office

Tel: +353 (0)1 408 2268

Tel: +353 (0)1 408 2274

Tel: +353 (0)1 408 2276

Tel: +353 (0)1 408 2280

Visit our Youtube channel

‌

Press Release Archive