Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I take it we can ask questions across both Votes. I have fewer questions in this instance.

I agree with the Tánaiste that the actions of a number of states to withdraw or suspend funding to UNRWA is indefensible. I welcome his stated position that the Government will not be party to any such action. My questions are twofold. When looking at states that have withdrawn funding from UNRWA - Britain, the United States, Australia, Canada, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Finland, shame on them all – they would be considered among Ireland’s closest allies in many respects, and we have strong relationships bilaterally with each of those states. Has the Government been in contact with those states to ask them to reconsider that position?

Second, I note the Tánaiste’s commitment to Irish funding. Has consideration been given to increasing the Irish contribution to UNRWA? I certainly advocate that. It would be an important statement. I have been in the West Bank previously. I visited an UNRWA refugee camp. UNRWA is the last line of defence for many Palestinians and absolute devastation. I cannot imagine the bravery of the UNRWA workers who continue to operate in Gaza and what they are contending with. There are double standards at play in respect of states withdraw funding from UNRWA at this point. In my view, all states should be seeking to have the contributions made to UNRWA recouped by the Israeli state because without the actions of the Israeli state, there would be no need for UNRWA in the first place.

My questions are twofold. Have we contacted and are we engaged with those states that have withdrawn or suspended their contributions and will we increase our contribution as a symbolic gesture as much as a much-needed financial gesture?