Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Dr. Sabella. I think Palestine is always on our minds. The committee has taken a very keen interest in the Middle East peace process and the conflict in Israel and Palestine. Members of the committee have visited Palestine, Jordan and Israel. We met the Palestinian Foreign Minister and chief negotiator when we were in Palestine. Obviously, it is a difficult and challenging issue. As Dr. Sabella said, the people on the ground and children ultimately suffer. I agree with him that the European Union needs to take a stronger role in brokering the peace process in the Middle East. I echo his words of hope in that regard. I know that the new EU High Representative, Federica Mogherini, has visited the region on one or two occasions. Obviously, Ireland has a special interest in the matter. The committee's interest is reflected in the fact that it is included in our work programme.