The Latest Breaking News from Micheal Martin

Micheal Martin said the actions of Vladimir Putin have left the EU exposed in terms of security.

Around 1,800 Ukrainians have already arrived in Ireland since the outbreak of war, the Government has confirmed.

Micheal Martin said the implications of the outbreak of war in Ukraine will be felt for some time.

Mr Martin said that Government departments are currently working through the logistics of taking significant numbers of Ukrainians into the country. He said this will involve the leasing of hotels and said the public may also have a role to play

Micheal Martin said a ‘people of Ireland response’ would be required.

'I would readily acknowledge that when that happens, there is a reciprocal response. And you end up with nobody on the ground in Moscow, where we do have Irish citizens'

Sinn Fein and Labour pressed the Government to kick out Yury Filatov, who was branded a ‘liar’.

Micheal Martin also branded Vladimir Putin a “bully and a thug”.

Mr Martin also ruled out Ireland acting alone and expelling the Russian ambassador to Ireland, Yuriy Filatov

'I don't know whether it can be done immediately'

Micheal Martin said that he would support accelerating the country’s bid to join the union.