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

I can be back at 6.30 p.m. and we can go on until 7.30 p.m. or 8 p.m. if members are that way disposed.

We were discussing the Middle East peace process and I was coming to a conclusion by reference to the settlements. I very much take the view outlined by Deputy O'Sullivan to the effect that the position is entirely unacceptable.

The issue of settlement products was raised by Deputy Durkan. The European Union ruled in 2013 that funding and research grants to the settlement area may not be spent in the settlements. I agree with Deputy Durkan that there has not been the same urgency and activity on the part of the European Union. I raised the matter at the September meeting and it is an issue to which I will return next week. I would be happy to report back to the committee at an early stage thereafter.

Deputy Durkan referred to a permanent secretariat. There are no plans for such a permanent secretariat at present. I believe that the essential problem that remains is the political will, which is not in evidence. Even the introduction of new structures will not by itself achieve any form of progress in the absence of political will. That is what we seek and it is in this context that our policy is being formulated.

A number of specific questions on the Ebola virus were put forward by Deputy Smith, Deputy Crowe and Deputy Durkan. Deputy Smith asked about reporting and funding. The reporting has improved. Some direct funding that Ireland has provided has been specifically targeted at contact tracing and other programmes that are essential to ensure we have what could be described as full reporting. There is a concern but indications suggest that the reporting is becoming more accurate and therefore we are getting a clearer picture.

Deputy Crowe raised a point about new skills. The new skills added by the military are by way of backup to our hard-working embassy people. There are security concerns and logistical and planning support are relevant as well.

Deputy Smith asked a question about the under-reporting of figures. The estimates are becoming more reliable as capacity increases. There is no widespread evidence to suggest a gross under-reporting, but I take the point. Members will appreciate that as the situation becomes clearer and as capacity increases the numbers relating to accurate reporting will be more in evidence.

Deputy Durkan asked a specific question on AeroMedevac. Of course this is a remarkably complex operation. Not only does it require a long-distance fixed-wing aircraft but also an isolation unit. Furthermore, specialist care and attention personnel will be required. What we are looking at is a co-ordinated European Union approach on the matter because there are capacity issues that we, as a single jurisdiction, are not in a position to overcome. Again, my Department has made further contingency plans with a suitable commercial operator. Other options are being discussed as well but the important point is – I am asking members to bear this in mind on all occasions – the fact that this is a high-risk engagement and anyone going to the area from Ireland needs to be fully aware of the precautions we are advising and the risks that are in evidence. As with the Army personnel referred to in the announcement today, these are expert people, people with a track record and with considerable experience. This is not an engagement to be undertaken under any circumstances by people without the appropriate high degree of necessary professional experience and expertise. This issue will be top of the agenda at the European Council meeting on Monday. I will be answering parliamentary questions in any event in the course of next week and should Members have a query I would be happy to liaise in any way I can with the committee.

Not for the first time Senator Norris has raised the matter of the Holy See. I acknowledge his support for our engagement there. The issue of accommodation and the Villa Spada is under active consideration. I acknowledge the fact that members of this committee were in Rome last week. Our ambassador, H.E. Emma Madigan, presented her credentials today.