Cllr. Denise Mullen : Stormont Executive must step up and show leadership in regard to Ukrainian Refugees.
Responding to the brutal war in Ukraine and resulting refugee crisis, Aontú Deputy Leader & Cllr for Mid Ulster, Denise Mullen, has called on the Stormont Executive to step up and lead with compassion in welcoming into our homes and our communities Ukrainians fleeing an escalating War and Humanitarian crisis.
Cllr Mullen: “The refugee crisis engulfing Europe as millions of Ukrainian women, children and elderly flee Putin’s barbarity, is heart-breaking for us all to see, but we are not helpless. We can act. In fact, we must act. In this dark time, we cannot be silent. We cannot turn away from the cries for help. We cannot ignore those in need. The Irish people across the island of Ireland are only too willing to open up their hearts, their homes, their communities to the Ukrainian people. In recent weeks, we have seen the very best of the Irish people as donations of money and essential goods come in – almost overwhelming the recipients. Long may that continue.”
“Now as millions are being forced to flee, Ireland must be a place of refuge for these victims of state-sponsored war and bloodshed. Poland has received over 1.4 million refugees since the onset of war; Hungary – more than 214,000; Slovakia – 165,000 plus; Romania – more than 84,000; Moldova as well – more than 80,000 – the list goes on. Millions of women, children and elderly are trying to escape to safety, and in need of sanctuary. As raised by my party colleague, Peadar Tóibín, in the Dáil this week – 2.7 million Ukrainians with disabilities are at risk of being left behind in this refugee crisis. It is in our power to help, and I have no doubt the Irish people want to do everything to help – We can't allow a dysfunctional Stormont Executive stand in the way of that particularly given that no legislation can be passed in this current mandate due to the absence of a First and Deputy First Minister ."
