Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge Deputy Smith's comments and his constructive engagement in his capacity of Fianna Fáil spokesperson. It would be an exaggeration to say that with foreign policy we have a bipartisan approach but there is a wide range of issues on which we have a bipartisan approach, which I acknowledge. I would have the same sentiment, perhaps to a lesser extent, for Deputy Crowe's comments, as I am sure he understands. There are areas of Irish foreign policy to which all parties subscribe, and that is very important. I very much appreciate that. I trust that will continue in the context of our engagement for the duration of the current Dáil.

The prospects for the Middle East peace process have seen grave importance placed on them by members. Deputies Mitchell and O'Sullivan are correct. The talks were suspended in April with no immediate prospect of resumption, which is a huge cause for concern, and although an element of progress is made from time to time, the talks never approached what we regard as being serious negotiation on the core issues, which will involve tough compromises and inevitable conclusions of a type that we have not seen in the past. As long as these matters remain elusive and outstanding, the problems are real and serious. It is in that context that our position is evolving and our stance and policy is informed.

Members have mentioned the blockade and we have consistently warned that the problems in Gaza, with particular reference to the blockade, will if unresolved give rise to a new cycle of violence, which is regrettable. That was the case in the past and unless there are changes and the blockade is lifted, the prospects for peace remain bleak. Political discussions must intensify and tackle the two aspects of the problem, including attacks into Israel from Gaza and the arbitrary restrictions imposed on Gaza by Israel which really have no security justification.

Deputy O'Sullivan spoke about the settlements and I must agree fully with her commentary that the settlements on the part of Israel and its continued expansion constitute a major obstacle and barrier to peace. That gives rise to the conclusion arrived at by Deputy Mitchell and shared by Deputy O'Sullivan that the process of the aggression on the matter of the settlements by Israel, if continued, renders a viable two-state solution into an unviable condition. It is incompatible with the two-state solution to have continued expansion of settlements.

We have important work to do at European Union level influencing and changing the position on the ground. The matter of settlement products was raised and I can resume on that issue after the vote.