High hopes for outcome of politicians' Ukraine visit

A visit by TDs and Senators to the Ukraine is expected to strengthen parliamentary ties between both countries.

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, Volodymyr Lytvyn.

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 Ukranian president Viktor Yushchenko, Prime Minister Yuriy Yekhanurov and Foreign Affairs Minister Mr Boris Tarasyus during the four-day visit.

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