Irish delegation visited Ukraine

The visit by TDs and Senators to the Ukraine is expected to strengthen parliamentary ties between both countries, IOL reported.

Ceann Comhairle Dr Rory O’Hanlon returns to Ireland today after leading a six-member Oireachtas delegation on a brief trip to the country.

Dr O’Hanlon said he was accepting an invitation from the Speaker of the Ukrainian parliament, Vladimir Litvin.

His spokesman said: “It is hoped that this visit to the Ukraine will serve to further strengthen parliamentary relations between the Verkhovna Rada and the Oireachtas.”

The all-party delegation included Labour TD Tommy Broughan, Charlie O’Connor of Fianna Fáil, Progressive Democrat TD Fiona O’Malley, Independent deputy James Breen, Shane McEntee of Fine Gael and Senator Cyprian Brady of Fianna Fáil.

The delegation met with the Ukrainian president Viktor Yushchenko, Prime Minister Yuri Yekhanurov and Foreign Affairs Minister Boris Tarasuk during the four-day visit.

Officials from the Irish Embassy in Kiev also met with the TDs and Senators.