In 2018, while serving as a TD and in line with Oireachtas rules, Catherine Connolly used a portion of her Parliamentary Activities Allowance under the “Research” heading to support a fact-finding visit to Syria. The total declared amount was €3,691, as set out in her annual return to the Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO).

This expenditure was made for research purposes: to gather first-hand information relevant to Catherine’s parliamentary work on foreign policy, humanitarian issues, sanctions, Irish neutrality and Ireland’s role in international institutions. Costs covered standard travel and subsistence. No personal benefit accrued.

The spending was fully declared and published in Catherine’s 2018 PAA/SIPO return, as required by law. Catherine has always complied with the rules governing the Parliamentary Activities Allowance and with SIPO reporting requirements.

Engagement with people and organisations on the ground in conflict settings is part of responsible parliamentary research. Such engagement does not imply endorsement of any government, faction or policy. Catherine’s record is consistent and clear: a commitment to human rights, active neutrality, humanitarian law and peace.

Catherine welcomes scrutiny of public spending and will continue to act with transparency and accountability in all aspects of her work.

ENDS

Contact: press@connollyforpresident.ie