Fiach MacConghail (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will be very brief. The ambassador is being slightly polite and perhaps too respectful.

I will pick up on the last few points in the ambassador's speech and seek greater clarity on how the ambassador thinks Europe should play a more active role in the formal recognition of the Palestinian state. He should tell the joint committee exactly what he means by that and how he thinks Ireland should play a part in this regard. In other words, this is an opportunity for the ambassador to tell members what they should do to support that statement formally. I would like him to be less vague about that.

The second question pertains to the Irish Government in particular. In the view of the ambassador, is the Irish Government doing enough with regard to the conflict? I refer in particular to the vagueness regarding the boycott, divestment and sanctions process. Is the ambassador telling members that it pertains to the settlement goods or is it in respect of Israeli goods? While the ambassador was obliged to show respect to our Minister, as do all members, he should make absolutely clear to the joint committee whether he is in favour of Ireland stepping up and formulating a clear policy on boycott to divestment and sanctions. Does this pertain to settlement goods or to Israeli goods?