Ms Lesley O'Connor:

I thank the Senator. His questions were comprehensive, so he will excuse me if I just jump in.

Regarding the occupied territories Bill, the World Council of Churches, which runs the EAPPI programme internationally, has stated that it encourages and accompanies Palestinian people and communities, member churches and partners throughout the world in their efforts to resist occupation, including through economic measures such as divestment from companies that profit from the occupation or produce goods in illegal settlements in occupied territories. Such actions seek to advance the cause of peace and justice in Israel and Palestine through active non-violent means using criteria rooted in faith. Accordingly, we believe that passing a Bill like the one in question would be a good measure for our Government to take.

There is concern about the international presence, given this week's withdrawal of more funding for NGOs.

In Khan al-Ahmar a number of containers were installed in the past few weeks so internationals could come and be accommodated to be present as a protective presence. They have been confiscated already by the Israeli military. Only yesterday, our programme sought to put in an overnight protective presence to keep the presence of internationals. The local population sees this presence of internationals as vital and it looks as if that is now a concern.