Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The purpose of the meeting is to meet the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputy Charlie Flanagan. Members are aware that the Minister was appointed to his post last July. This is his first meeting with the joint committee and we are delighted to have him with us. He can obviously bring a crowd, if we look at the numbers in the Visitors Gallery. It is great to have such a good turnout at the meeting. I want to extend a very warm welcome to the Minister, together with his officials. It is also one of the first times the new Secretary General of the Department of Foreign Affairs is here before us, and I am glad he is accompanying the Minister today.
Today's meeting is timely. There are a lot of issues to be discussed in the context of foreign affairs, conflict and other issues that have dominated the news in recent weeks and continue to do so. Today's meeting is, therefore, a good opportunity for us. We gave the Minister a few weeks to relax in the job, although I know he has not been relaxing as he has been going to A, B and C, and from Northern Ireland to the US, the UN and other places. He has been very busy since taking over the post in July and we are delighted he is here today.
The format of today's meeting is that we will hear an opening statement from the Minister and we will then go to a question and answer session.
Before we proceed, I remind committee members, witnesses and those in the Visitors Gallery to switch off their mobile phones for the duration of the meeting as they cause interference, even when left in silent mode, with the recording equipment in committee rooms. I remind members of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. By virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. If they are directed by the Chairman to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to do so, they will be entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person or an entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

I welcome the Minister and call on him to make his opening statement.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am very pleased to be here and I welcome the opportunity to address this committee for the first time since my appointment as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade in July. The fact that I have not addressed the committee over the past few months is not an indication of my lack of engagement with it. I have followed the progress, work and reports not only of the Chairman, but of the members and the committee. I think it is true to say that the only citizen of this State who travels more than the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade is the Chairman, for the time being, of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade. That is perhaps another reason that we did not have an opportunity to engage earlier.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We could not get an appointment.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I look forward to working closely with the Chairman and with the members of the committee over the course of my tenure as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. I know that we will be meeting regularly for an exchange of views in the period ahead and I concur with what the Chairman said in there being serious and real issues on the international stage. This committee has been focused on them. I am anxious to have an opportunity to engage with it on these not only today, but over future weeks and months. For the purpose of today's meeting, I wish to brief the committee on recent developments at the Foreign Affairs Council. My statement will focus on the extraordinary Foreign Affairs Council meeting in August, the regular meeting in October and we look forward to the November meeting next Monday in Brussels.

I propose to address the three key issues which have dominated discussions at the Council and are likely to do so for some time to come, namely Ebola, the southern neighbourhood and the eastern neighbourhood. Each presents complex challenges which will demand much of my time over the coming months when my schedule will include visits to Kiev and, following my recent visit to Cairo and the Gaza reconstruction conference, I intend to visit the Middle East at the earliest opportunity. I look forward to further exchanges with the committee on these critical challenges following these visits and I undertake to report at the earliest opportunity thereafter.

Ebola is a primary concern for the Government and one on which I have been working very closely with the Minister for Health, Deputy Leo Varadkar, and the Minister for Defence, Deputy Simon Coveney, in recent times. My Department is also in ongoing contact with other Government agencies, in particular, the Department of Health, the Department of Defence and the Department of the Taoiseach, as well as the Health Service Executive.

Since the first cases emerged in March 2014, the current outbreak of Ebola is the largest and most complex since the virus was first discovered in 1976. There have been more cases and deaths in this outbreak than all others combined. As of 7 November, the World Health Organization reports 13,268 cases of Ebola with, unfortunately, 4,960 deaths.

Ireland is one of a small number of countries with an embassy in Freetown and I take this opportunity to pay tribute to the staff of my Department who have been working full-time on Ebola and related issues in a most challenging environment. The dedication and professionalism demonstrated by Ambassador Walsh and her team in Freetown, along with officials from other agencies who have been on the ground, exemplify all that is best about Irish public service. The Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputy Sean Sherlock, recently visited Sierra Leone and has been reporting first hand to me about the hard work being undertaken by our embassy staff and, indeed, about the critical situation on the ground in Sierra Leone and in the region. He is playing an important role in the Government’s response to this crisis.

At the October meeting of the Council, there was an extensive discussion on the Ebola crisis and widespread agreement that member states needed to do more. In response, my Department began to work with the Department of Defence on a joint initiative and I am pleased to inform the committee today that the Minister for Defence, Deputy Coveney, and I have agreed that a contingent of Irish Defence Forces personnel will be deployed to Sierra Leone to work with and support our embassy staff in Freetown. This contingent of three personnel, all of whom have vast collective experience in West Africa, will be deployed to the embassy under my Department’s Emergency Civilian Assistance Team, E-CAT, initiative.

Continuing a long tradition of our Defence Forces contributing to global crisis relief efforts, these personnel bring a wealth of valuable technical experience. The deployment, in conjunction with the work being carried out by our embassy, other government agencies and Irish non-governmental organisations, NGOs, demonstrates clearly the long standing commitment of the Irish people to assisting the most vulnerable communities overseas. We are also working with our colleagues in the UK, the USA, the UN organisations and our NGOs. This deployment will enhance the mission’s capacity to continue to play a key role. These deployments are a clear example of the whole of government approach required to fight this dreadful disease. By adding experience in areas such as emergency planning and response, logistics, security assessment and risk mitigation and paramedic training, those deployed will add a significant new dimension to Ireland’s contribution.

On 24 September, my officials reported to this committee on the Department’s response to the Ebola crisis. The Government continues to work very closely with our EU partners and through the UN to ensure that a strong co-ordinated approach and detailed contingency plans are in place for all aspects of this crisis. At the October meeting, the Council agreed to guarantee that international health workers who contract Ebola will be treated in-country at appropriate medical facilities or evacuated in line with medical advice on a case-by-case basis.

The key to preventing the spread of Ebola is to stop it at its source in West Africa. We also need to help our partner countries there to build their resilience and reduce poverty which is a major driver of the infection. That is why the Government is providing over €17 million in the region directly to our partner governments and through the NGOs. Our programmes in Sierra Leone and Liberia are very focused on strengthening health systems. A grant of €1 million has recently been approved for the UN Ebola Trust Fund and other additional support is under active consideration.

Some 59 Irish citizens are currently registered with my Department as being based in Sierra Leone, Liberia and Mali. Officials are in ongoing contact with those registered, providing up to date advice to ensure their health and safety. While there has been welcome progress in the development of treatment facilities and the introduction of a facility under the auspices of the European Commission to assist with medevacs, working in Liberia and Sierra Leone remains a very challenging proposition. Having regard to the complexities involved, the successful repatriation of an Irish citizen presenting with Ebola will be a significant challenge for all of the agencies involved. While contingency plans are in place, there is no guarantee that any of the options available will lead to an evacuation at the appropriate time for a number of reasons outside the control of the Irish authorities. These include the medical prognosis and advice in the individual case, the short window in which to carry out a repatriation and, most pertinently, the very small number of aircraft available globally capable of carrying out such an operation. It must be stressed that, in light of the complex and challenging environment, it is crucial for everyone who wishes to volunteer to ensure they have the appropriate qualifications, experience and training to take on their role and that they are in full knowledge of the precautions they need to take, as well as the huge risks involved.

The wider implications of Ebola for the affected countries are serious. Economic growth is likely to fall as normal agricultural and market activities have been disrupted. Food shortages, reduced government revenues and growing unemployment are also likely. It is crucial therefore that the international community continues to assist in the long-term development needs of the affected countries after this epidemic is brought under control. We will again discuss Ebola at the November Council, on Monday next, and will be joined by the EU Ebola co-ordinator, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management, Christos Stylianides, who will provide an update on the efforts of the European Union.

Turning to the southern neighbourhood, Middle East issues remain a major preoccupation of the Council.

I have been most vociferous in pressing the European Union to play a much stronger role in promoting and supporting the peace process. At the October council meeting, I urged the new High Representative, Ms Federica Mogherini, to make an early visit to the region in her new capacity, identifying these issues as a priority for the European Union. Following her visit on 7-8 November, I look forward to meeting her on Monday and discussing how we can carry this work forward, as the Middle East is, once again, on the agenda for the Foreign Affairs Council on Monday following discussion at both the August and October council meetings.
Some two and a half months from the end of the most recent and horrendous Gaza conflict, the humanitarian situation within the strip remains serious and grave. The process of reconstruction and recovery has yet to begin in earnest, with only very limited amounts of the materials required for reconstruction having entered the area. Israel has announced some positive measures to ease the blockade, including some limited exports and the granting of 5,000 additional permits to allow Palestinians in Gaza to work within Israel. However, the overall restrictions policy, regrettably, remains very much in place.
Members will be aware that I attended the Gaza reconstruction conference in Cairo on 12 October where, on behalf of the Government, I pledged some €2.5 million to meet immediate humanitarian needs within Gaza and to contribute to its longer term recovery and reconstruction. This is in addition to €1 million already provided to Gaza earlier this year and to our broader programme of assistance to the Palestinian people, which currently amounts to over €10 million annually. The conference was valuable in refocusing international attention on the humanitarian plight within Gaza, as well as underlining the need for urgent political efforts to both address the underlying causes and ensure that we avoid the calamity of a fourth Gaza conflict.
On the positive side, the ceasefire agreed on 26 August, following Egyptian mediation, continues to hold, with no major reported violations so far. Talks on transforming the current ceasefire into a more sustainable agreement which will address both the underlying issues of the blockade and a halt to rocket attacks on Israel are reportedly due to resume in Cairo towards the end of this month. Progress within this framework remains essential if we are to see a real improvement on the ground in Gaza and the actual commencement of vital reconstruction. The EU has already made clear, including at the August council meeting, its readiness to contribute to a comprehensive and sustainable solution in Gaza. Work is continuing at official level on identifying the various ways in which the European Union might contribute, including through building on its existing missions deployed in the region. A more sustainable ceasefire agreement within Gaza remains essential, however, if the EU is to become more closely engaged on the ground there.
As was widely recognised at the Cairo conference, the crisis in Gaza cannot be divorced from the wider political context and the continuing failure to make any real progress towards ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and achieving a negotiated two-state solution. The overall position on the ground within the occupied territories has continued to sharply deteriorate in recent months since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict. Tensions have become dangerously heightened in east Jerusalem with regard to the Temple Mount, where the long-established status quoregarding this highly significant religious site is increasingly being challenged by certain right-wing Israeli politicians and settlers. There has been a series of violent incidents in recent days, which have resulted in the deaths of innocent civilians and bystanders, and we all condemn those.
Meanwhile, Israel has continued to announce further large-scale settlement expansions in highly sensitive areas such as east Jerusalem. These announcements, which are directly inimical to any prospects for pursuing peace or promoting a two-state solution, have drawn widespread international condemnation, including on my own behalf in statements which I issued on 1 September and 28 October. This month’s council is likely to see some discussion of Sweden’s decision on 30 October to formally recognise Palestine as a state. We believe very much that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can ultimately only be resolved through negotiations and securing a comprehensive peace agreement which provides for a viable two-State solution. All our policies and actions at EU and international level are constructively designed to advance this goal and secure a comprehensive peace agreement at the earliest opportunity. As circumstances change, our policies need to be reviewed and evaluated and this process is under way.
I remain convinced that the EU must become more actively engaged in the efforts to relaunch the peace process, following the unsuccessful conclusion of the US-led peace talks earlier this year, and in confronting the increasingly serious threats to securing a viable, negotiated two-state solution. As I mentioned, I hope the discussion at this month's council meeting in Brussels on Monday, following the new High Representative’s recent welcome visit to the region, will be the start of a serious policy reflection within the Union on how it can better deploy its undoubted leverage and influence to better effect in pursuing a comprehensive peace agreement. Our overall position on the Middle East peace process and how best to advance it will continue to be evaluated in light of our continuing assessment and that of all our EU partners.
The crisis in northern Iraq, following the rapid advances of the ISIS jihadist movement earlier this year, necessitated an extraordinary meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council in August. The focus of this council was very much on political and humanitarian support from the EU to assist those displaced by this major crisis and to the new Iraqi Government formed just prior to the council meeting. It is clear that broad-based international action remains necessary to confront the serious security threat which ISIS and other militant jihadists operating in the region pose not just to the Middle East but the entire global community. The extraordinary council meeting in August recognised that there is a responsibility on all in the international community to co-operate with the new Iraqi Government in the common fight against terrorism.
The UN Security Council has adopted two wide-ranging resolutions - Resolutions 2170 and 2178 - which have called for international action on a number of fronts to deal with ISIS, including stopping incitement of terrorist acts, preventing the flow of foreign fighters to the conflicts in Syria and Iraq and tackling effectively the sources of terrorist financing. Unfortunately, this threat has not receded, but on the contrary it has only intensified in recent weeks as ISIS has continued its barbarous campaign across Iraq and Syria. Last month’s council meeting agreed a new EU strategy on counter-terrorism and foreign fighters, called for at the August 2014 European Council. Ministers also encouraged the High Representative to mirror this work by developing a new comprehensive regional strategy for Iraq and Syria that would look beyond the immediate threat posed by ISIS.
Ultimately, it remains the case that the related crises in Syria and Iraq can only be resolved politically and not militarily. The conclusions adopted by the council last month were quite clear in recognising this and, in line with our long-standing national position, I will certainly be emphasising this point in any further discussion of the crises in Iraq and Syria at next week's council. The immediate prospects within Syria for a political resolution remain bleak but it is incumbent on all in the international community to fully support the new UN special envoy, Mr. Staffan de Mistura, in his efforts to progress a solution based on the Geneva principles, which provide for transition to a new, agreed form of government within Syria. It also remains important that all regional stakeholders in a position to exert influence are fully engaged in UN-led peace efforts.
Equally, within Iraq, the new unity government led by Prime Minister Al-Abadi must be strongly encouraged to continue efforts to promote reconciliation and more inclusive policies within the country. Accountability for all those, including the many members of minority communities who have suffered grievously at the hands of extremists - be it ISIS or the Assad regime - also remains critical and that is why we continue to strongly support referral of the Syrian issue to the International Criminal Court. We must never forget the humanitarian dimension of the crises in Syria and Iraq, with the onset of winter only compounding the problems confronting the millions of people internally displaced or refugees.

With the onset of winter only compounding the problems confronting the millions of refugees and internally displaced people, this is a genuine regional crisis impacting severely on neighbours of both Syria and Iraq. This only reinforces the case for the development of a comprehensive EU strategy to confront it.

A further Middle East issue to be addressed at this month's Council is the continuing volatile and dangerous situation in Libya. This issue was also discussed at the August and October Councils with substantial conclusions having been adopted last month. Although not yet on the scale engulfing Syria or Iraq, the conflict in Libya is rightly of concern to all in the EU given that country's proximity as a Mediterranean neighbour and the real fear that it may become a failed state if the crisis and conflict are not halted and reversed. The EU has consistently condemned the ongoing violence and human rights abuses within the country and urged all sides to agree an unconditional ceasefire. As with Iraq and Syria, there is no military solution to the conflict and only a political agreement can provide a sustainable way forward for the country. The immediate priority must be an end to all violence and an end also to actions by external forces which might exacerbate current divisions and undermine Libya's democratic transition. While the Council last month recognised clearly the legitimacy of the House of Representatives elected in June as the sole legislative authority in Libya, it also urged the Government led by Prime Minister al-Thinni and the House to reach out to all parties to engage constructively in an inclusive political dialogue aimed at ending the current deep divisions within Libyan society. Libya remains a vital regional partner for the EU and, indeed, for Ireland which has so many strong associations and ties with the country. It behoves us to continue to do all we can to assist Libya to emerge from its crisis and resume a sustainable path to peace, security and, ultimately, prosperity.

I turn to the eastern neighbourhood. The crisis in Ukraine continued to be the subject of detailed discussion in the Foreign Affairs Council during the period under review. While there have been some positive developments since the beginning of September when the parties agreed a ceasefire and peace plan in Minsk, the situation remains very fragile. From the outset, the EU has played a leading role in efforts to promote dialogue and peace in Ukraine and has worked tirelessly to facilitate an inclusive and negotiated settlement of the crisis. The EU's response to the crisis has involved a three-phase approach beginning with the suspension of discussions on a new agreement with Russia on visa liberalisation. This was followed by a series of asset freezes and visa bans against Russian and Ukrainian individuals and entities involved in the undermining of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. At the end of July, agreement was reached on a package of restrictive measures targeting sectoral co-operation and exchanges with the Russian Federation. These restrictions limit access by Russian state-owned financial institutions to EU capital markets, impose an embargo on new contracts for trading arms, establish an export ban for dual-use goods for military end users and curtail Russian access to sensitive technologies, particularly in the field of energy. The European Council decided to strengthen these restrictive measures on 30 August. At the October Council, Ministers agreed that the conditions for amending or relaxing the measures in place do not currently exist. As the situation on the ground in Ukraine evolves, we will discuss with our European partners what further modifications or measures may in the circumstances be appropraite and necessary.

The Council welcomed the direct talks between the parties that resulted in agreement on 5 September in Minsk on a ceasefire and 12-point peace plan. A lasting ceasefire remains key to the success of current efforts to reach a sustainable political solution, which must be based on respect for Ukraine's sovereignty and include clear guarantees on border security, disarmament of all illegal groups and the withdrawal of foreign forces. It is disturbing, therefore, to note the numerous violations of the ceasefire that have taken place. It is vital that all sides abide by the commitments they have signed up to under Minsk and that no effort is spared in working to implement the protocol and bring about a negotiated end to this tragic conflict.

At the October Council, Ministers called for more support for the OSCE special monitoring mission, underlining its key contribution in helping to broker the ceasefire and secure agreement on the modalities for its implementation. Without the mission's tireless efforts, it is difficult to see how these agreements could otherwise have been reached. The mission also has a vital role to play in monitoring the ceasefire and ensuring Ukraine's full and effective control of its border with Russia. I pay tribute to the five Irish members of the mission for the valuable work they undertake on a daily basis. I am pleased that Ireland also provided nine personnel to the international observer missions monitoring the parliamentary elections which took place across Ukraine on 26 October last. The EU has welcomed the outcome of the elections which mark further progress for the Ukrainian people. I look forward to the early formation of a new government which can provide a new impetus to the much needed programme of economic and political reforms. I am pleased to note the preliminary assessment of the OSCE's observer mission that the elections marked an important step in Ukraine's aspiration to consolidate democratic elections in accordance with its international commitments. By contrast, the elections on 2 November in parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions ran counter to the letter and spirit of the Minsk protocol which foresees local elections in accordance with Ukrainian law. The Council had already made it clear at its meeting in October that the EU would not recognise these elections which risk undermining progress towards a sustainable political solution within the framework of the Minsk agreements.

The Council expressed its deep concern at the deteriorating humanitarian situation in eastern Ukraine. Deplorable violence and suffering have been inflicted on thousands of innocent civilians over many months and we are now faced with a serious humanitarian crisis. The EU has led the way in providing urgently needed support and is committed to making available additional funding and in-kind assistance to meet the growing needs of local populations in the affected areas. Against this background, I welcome greatly the gas deal reached between Russia and Ukraine on 29 October which ensures security of gas supply for the Ukrainian population throughout the challenging winter months. The EU recognises the need to fully support Ukraine at this very difficult and challenging time. In particular, we must work to achieve an outcome to the current crisis which enables the Ukrainian people to freely choose their own future without external influence. The Council will discuss Ukraine again at its November meeting with particular reference to reviewing the state of play on the Minsk agreement and the recent elections.

The November Foreign Affairs Council will be the first to be chaired by the new High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Ms Federica Mogherini. I look forward to working closely with Ms Mogherini in her new role and wish her every success in building on the work of her predecessor, Ms Catherine Ashton. As I have highlighted in my statement, the forthcoming Council is expected to see further discussions on Ukraine, Ebola and the Middle East peace process. In addition, we will discuss Bosnia and Herzegovina. This follows the conclusions adopted at the October Council welcoming the conduct of the elections which took place in Bosnia and Herzegovina on 12 October and which also called for the swift formation of a government there.

Before concluding, I would like to touch briefly on the wide-ranging review of our foreign policy and external relations which I have been undertaking with my Department. This is an important exercise in light of the many challenges and opportunities presented by our fast-changing world. The variety and complexity of issues I have addressed in my remarks today highlight the value of such a wide-ranging review of policy. It presents an opportunity to make a fresh and forward-looking statement about Ireland's foreign policy and our place in the world. I thank the joint committee for its detailed submission to the review earlier this year. Work is at an advanced stage and I expect to bring the outcome to Government for consideration shortly. In addition to charting a future path for our foreign policy, an important aim of the review is to communicate the purpose and value of our international engagement.

In addition to charting a future path for our foreign policy, an important aim of the review is to communicate the purpose and value of our international engagement. With this in mind, I intend to publish the review when it has been finalised. I hope it will spark discussion and debate about our international contribution. I look forward to discussing it with the Chairman and members of the joint committee in early course.

The work of our embassy network is crucial as we strive to address the range of issues on the international agenda and pursue the broad range of the Government's European Union and international objectives. For this reason, I am convening a heads of mission conference in Dublin in January 2015. The conference, the first of its kind since 2011, will provide an opportunity to co-ordinate our work in advancing Government priorities and providing a first-rate service to citizens and businesses. I would like to engage the committee fully in the work of the conference and I will be in touch with the Chairman shortly to develop a plan to carry forward this work.

I will be pleased to listen to members and engage and deal with any issues they may have. I look forward to hearing their perspectives on these and other issues they may wish to raise.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his comprehensive statement on world affairs in advance of the Foreign Affairs Council meeting on Monday next. Before asking Deputy Brendan Smith to contribute, I ask the Minister to elaborate on one point. He indicated the Council meeting on Monday will consider Sweden's decision to recognise Palestine, which was implemented on 30 October. Careful consideration must be given to a decision by any country to recognise a sovereign state. In view of the passing by the Seanad of a motion recognising the state of Palestine, an issue on which I am sure other members will have many questions, will the Minister outline the issues Ireland would be required to consider if we were recognise Palestine as a state?
I am aware the Minister had comprehensive and successful meetings in New York and Washington with the US Secretary of State, Mr. John Kerry, and President Obama's immigration officials during his recent visit to the United States. Will he provide an update on the position vis-à-visimmigration reform? I accept this issue is not related to the forthcoming Council meeting.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

On the recognition of Palestine, members will be aware that on 30 October last Sweden implemented its decision to recognise the Palestinian state. I am very conscious of the debate on this issue in the Oireachtas, including the motion passed by the Seanad on 22 October calling on the Government to formally recognise the state of Palestine and do everything in its power at international level to secure a viable two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As members will be aware, Ireland has for many years supported a two-state solution and all our actions and utterances are geared towards the ultimate goal of achieving this solution in the region. If there is no prospect of substantive peace talks resuming in the very near future, we will need to take close account of that in evaluating how we can achieve our overall goal. We must also take into account the important role of the European Union in reviewing the current peace process. This will be a major item on the agenda of the meeting on Monday next.

I was pleased, on behalf of Ireland, to propose at the most recent Foreign Affairs Council meeting that this issue be moved up the agenda at future meetings. I was a little concerned that there had not been the type of engagement or discussion on the formulation of a stance on the issue that many member states expected and wished. I suggested at the previous meeting, which was chaired by the then High Representative, Baroness Catherine Ashton, that the issue move up the agenda during the tenure of Ms Federica Mogherini, the incoming High Representative. I was pleased also that Ms Mogherini took my advice and that of others that she pay an early visit to the region, which she did last week. I look forward to meeting and engaging with her and to hearing at first-hand her account of the visit. I also want to hear her assessment as to how best the European Union should proceed on this issue. I would also like to hear the Swedish perspective in the aftermath of Sweden's recent decision.

The overall position on the ground remains highly volatile and dangerous. The death toll is rising following a series of violent incidents in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and the West Bank in recent days, all of which we condemn most resolutely. Against this background, I regard it as unwise to rule out any option, including an early recognition of Palestine. What we must do is advance all causes that enhance the prospects of peace in the region and ensure the two-state solution still has a chance of being realised.

The Government's position is not set in stone. We approach this issue, as we have always done, as a steadfast friend of the Palestinian and Israeli peoples. We wish to help them in whatever way we can to resolve their conflict and secure peace, dignity and security which the people of the region deserve and require. I will discuss this issue with my EU colleagues next Monday and listen intently to the High Representative's contribution on the issue. Our position will be evaluated in the light of this discussion and having regard to the circumstances on the ground. I undertake to keep the joint committee updated on our thinking and approach, as they evolve. I will return to the issue of immigration reform.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Yes, we will discuss that issue later.

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his detailed presentation on the work of the Foreign Affairs Council in recent months. While he has not appeared before the joint committee previously, he and I have discussed practically all of the issues under consideration today by way of parliamentary questions and Topical Issue debates.

On the Israel-Palestine conflict, I welcome the Minister's comment that he intends to pursue this issue at European Union level. I hope there will be greater engagement on the matter by the European Union. As the Minister stated, no real progress is being made towards ending the conflict and he correctly noted that circumstances are deteriorating sharply. Unfortunately, innocent people have again lost their lives in recent days in a series of extremely worrying incidents.

I welcome the decision of Sweden to formally recognise Palestine as a state and the decision of Seanad Éireann to accept, without division, a motion tabled by Senator Averil Power. I have sought, through the office of the Fianna Fáil Party Whip, to have a debate arranged on a similar motion in Dáil Éireann. I hope the Government will facilitate such a debate at an early date.

I welcome the Minister's attendance at the conference on the reconstruction of Gaza, which remains a significant challenge. Unfortunately, the Israeli blockade remains in place. My understanding is that the crossings into Gaza are operating largely as they did prior to the conflict of the summer months and that restrictions have been eased only very slightly. Further expansion of settlements was announced by the Israelis on 1 September and in late October. It goes without saying that the continued expansion of settlements endangers the viability of a two-state solution, a policy to which Ireland has been committed for decades.

I welcome the Minister's comment that he will encourage and advocate strongly that the European Union and his colleagues on the Foreign Affairs Council exert strong pressure on Israel to halt its violations of international law and hope the European Union will become more directly involved in this issue.

There are also reports that concern me that some EU member states are pressurising Palestine not to accede to the International Criminal Court. I hope the Minister can update us on this issue. I hope the Minister can advocate at the Council meeting next week that the EU should push for a complete lifting of the blockade. We have had promises at EU level and from the Minister's predecessor that progress would be made on a ban on settlement products. I do not know what progress has been made in that respect. It is probably very little. Britain, Denmark, the Netherlands and one or two other countries put in place policies to ban settlement products. I would like to hear what further progress has been made on it.

The committee had a constructive meeting with the Minister's officials and representatives of the NGOs with regard to the Ebola outbreak. I compliment the Department's staff and the members of the Defence Forces who will go to work in the region. I wish them well in their work in the most difficult of circumstances. The representatives and personnel of the NGOs are working under difficult circumstances.

At the October Council meeting, the EU and its member states committed to a certain level of funding to deal with the Ebola outbreak. Subsequently, at the European Council meeting, a commitment was made to double the pledge made by the Foreign Affairs Ministers. Is that happening? I welcome the fact that the Minister has already committed €70 million to help to deal with the outbreak. Are other countries honouring their commitments and pledges made at Council of Ministers meetings? Is the Minister confident the figures of more than 13,000 reported cases of people afflicted with Ebola and 5,000 deaths do not represent under-reporting?

With regard to Iraq and Syria, the Minister outlined a worrying picture, which is a cause of concern to all. The countries in the region that have facilitated refugees and working under difficult circumstances to accommodate refugees must be given international assistance. At one of the meetings, it was reported that tensions are building in one of the neighbouring countries, which is worrying.

One of the issues brought to the attention of me and other committee members is that there are ongoing violations of United Nations Security Council resolutions 2139 and 2188 in Syria. The resolutions ordered the end of the use of barrel bombs and banned the use of poison gas respectively. A large number of deaths have taken place due to such activities.

Deaths in recent days in the Ukraine must be of concern to the international community. My understanding was that the 5 September ceasefire had helped to reduce the intensity of the fighting but it is not operational at the moment. There are reports that the EU and the US are considering further bans on Russia. Is that being considered at EU level?

In his concluding remarks, the Minister referred to any other issues we may like to bring to his attention. We had a number of discussions at this committee about the proposed transatlantic trade and investment partnership. Ireland has concerns about the protection of the agriculture industry and the protection of human rights. It is laid down in the Lisbon treaty that there should be an assessment of any human rights aspect in any trade deals the EU involves itself in.

I wish the Minister well in the Northern Ireland talks and I welcome the fact that he has taken a hands-on approach since the summertime. Any time we have made substantial progress on difficult issues in Northern Ireland, the two sovereign Governments were key participants in the talks. I hope the Minister, the Secretary of State and the two parties can make progress by the end of November.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That was a long contribution, with questions and statements. I ask members to restrict themselves to questions rather than long statements. Otherwise we will be here all evening. Everyone wants to ask questions of the Minister. Many of the questions will overlap and there is no point in the Minister answering the same questions again.

Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

A number of questions were not asked. The Minister announced that in response to the Ebola crisis, his Department began to work with the Department of Defence. He spoke about Irish soldiers heading off to support our embassy staff in Freetown, which is a significant step. What new skills does the Minister expect these Defence Forces members to bring? What new initiatives are involved and what will Defence Forces members do that civilians cannot do? It is a significant step to send them over. Perhaps the Minister can expand on his thinking.

At the last two meetings of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Isis was discussed, along with Turkey's position on Isis and the attacks on the city of Kobani. These have shocked people in Ireland and across the EU. We have seen images on our televisions of Turkish soldiers sitting on their tanks while, across the way, Kurdish fighters are trying to defend the city. Turkey has bombed Kurds on the Turkish-Syrian border, killed 21 Kurdish protesters and broken the ceasefire it had with the Kurdistan Workers Party, PKK. Was that area discussed at the Foreign Affairs Committee meetings or at the side meetings? Can the Minister outline his view on this? Kurds have been asking that, if support is being sent to Syria, some of the aid can be sent through Kurdish areas. Does the EU have a view on that? Many people see Turkey as having taken a very partisan view. Since the American forces supplied the Kurds in Kobani, Turkey seems to have adopted a different position. I have concerns about its role in this conflict. Perhaps the Minister can give his view.

The transatlantic trade and investment partnership was mentioned in previous questions.

We have had some civil society groups appear before the committee but many of them, NGOs and political parties have mentioned their concerns about TTIP. For example, there is concern about the inclusion of the investor dispute settlement or IDS mechanism which, in the view of many, facilitates and overrides sovereign governments and local legal systems. Has the matter come up on the Minister's agenda? Has the partnership factored in the talks? I note that no specific talks on TTIP took place at the last two meetings of the Foreign Affairs Council but expect it is on the agenda for the next meeting. Will the Minister raise the concerns about TTIP? In terms of TTIP, there is concern across Europe about the secrecy that surrounds the talks. The US has adopted a different approach and is much more involved in bringing in civil society groups. I ask the Minister to consider such an initiative. It would prove helpful to a lot of people who have huge concerns about the agreement.

Ibrahim Halawa is a constituent of mine. He is a young man and an Irish citizen who has been imprisoned in Egypt. Recently I asked the Minister a question on Mr. Halawa's incarceration. I do not know what influence the Irish Government has with the Egyptian Government or authorities. Is there anything that the Minister can do about his case? Perhaps, at side meetings, he can ask for assistance from countries that have more influence with the Egyptian authorities.

Similarly, Bahrain was not specifically discussed at the press releases following the two meetings of the Foreign Affairs Council. However, we know that human rights have worsened in the region and that the authoritarian regime continues to crack down on democratic opposition. I asked the Minister about a Bahraini human rights activist, Mr. Nabil Rajab, who was jailed for supposedly sending a tweet that criticised the government. I welcome the Minister's concern about the case. Can he use his influence and personally raise his case at the next meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council?

The Minister mentioned the Palestinan-Israeli situation and we have seen the situation deteriorate. I welcome the fact that he said nothing is set in stone. He has also attended the talks in Egypt on Gaza and so on. As has been mentioned, since the ceasefire the siege of Gaza still exists and the checkpoints are at full capacity. We have pumped in millions of euro of European taxpayers' money which includes Irish money but power and clean water are still needed. Part of the discussions were on extending the fishing area and so on. Unfortunately, there has been no movement to resolve the conflict whatsoever. My concern, which I presume is shared by most people, is that the conflict broke out following the siege. Previously another conflict existed that centred around these issues. It would appear to anybody looking in from the outside that there has been no movement to resolve these issues. I welcome the Minister mentioning that the EU may becoming involved in discussions but I urge balance. Clearly, the American Government has not succeeded in moving the Israeli Government.

Ireland stood aside when the UN voted on the recognition of Palestine and Sweden has now upped the ante in terms of recognition. Does the Minister accept that there are huge difficulties within Europe, particularly in European states that have a lot of war guilt and difficult past associations with events in the region? He said it is time Ireland stepped up to the plate. Part of the frustration felt by many people who live in the occupied territories and Gaza has been the lack of movement by the international community. No-one is speaking out. Does the Minister agree that it is time Ireland's stance on what is happening in the region became more forceful?

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I call Deputy Durkan. I urge him to be as quick as he can because a lot of people wish to contribute to the debate.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I congratulate the Minister on his address to the committee. I also congratulate him on his promotion as this his first appearance before the committee as Minister. I wish him well in a very interesting Department, both nationally and internationally, and I have no doubt that he is more than capable of dealing with the situation as it presents itself.

I wish to mention the Ebola virus and how it is being contained. Last week the ambassador for Nigeria attended here and indicated that the situation is being contained in his area. Unfortunately, it is not being contained as successfully in other areas. I have a question on the availability of appropriate aircraft in the event of having to airlift people out of affected areas in an urgent situation. Are fixed wing aircraft or helicopters required? To what extent can such craft be accessed or sourced at short notice? An airlift operation may be needed if the situation deteriorates.

For a long time I have heard that the two state solution is the only solution for Gaza and I am worried about its progress to date. For a variety of reasons it has been held out as the only option available. It may well be the only one available but my own view is that the longer we go on without achieving any degree of success the less chance the solution has of being successful in the long run. Many other contributing factors may also impact upon that solution. For example, a disillusionment on the part of all subscribers which is based on the premise that if it has not succeeded so far then it is unlikely to succeed.

Has it been possible to follow a line pursued by a former member of this committee who is now President Michael D. Higgins? I refer to the extent to which a permanent structure has been set up in the region whereby all opposing factions could address their grievances. As we know from previous discussions, there are more than just two grievances. If so, to what extent has the European Union addressed the possibility of such a structure? We have discussed it here in the past and I am sure we will discuss it in the future. Has any progress been made?

Are there wider implications if there is recognition of the Palestinian State by one member of the European Union? What is the view of the rest of the Union? What is the consensus of opinion within the Union at present on the matter? Has that opinion been progressed? Are there wider implications if ISIS pursue a Palestinian state? Such a development would mean something totally different and would extend the concept of recognition now envisaged. Do other issues exist? If so, have they been discussed at European level, etc?

To what extent are efforts being made by the international community, both by the US, the European Union and all constituent bodies, to bring about a discussion along the lines that I have referred to? Is it being done with a view to identifying the better process of having dialogue rather than renewed confrontation and violence? The most recent intrusion into Gaza is a repetition of Operation Cast Lead which took place a few years ago. It has brought everything back to where it was before and set the peace process back several years. In order to ensure that we are not all talking about something but doing little, or are accused of doing little about it, is the EU committed to getting down to brass tacks? Is there a commitment to encourage, for want of a better description, the various opposing parties to come to talks?

The Chairman will be glad to learn that I shall draw my remarks to a conclusion shortly.

A question has been raised as to whether the EU is prepared to deal with produce from the occupied territories by way of sanctions. It has been talked about on the margins but has not been put forward as a realistic proposition to encourage direct negotiations. Has there been any indication from either side involved as to whether there is a willingness to recognise each other's right to exist and co-exist? Without that recognition, any progressive discussion is going nowhere.

As regards Iraq, ISIS and Libya, may I ask the degree to which control of oil-producing facilities has been commandeered by jihadists or ISIS, with a view to identifying the full extent of their funding capabilities? Economics come into all these things and if a source of funding has been seized, requisitioned or identified by such forces, they are likely to continue on that path for a long time because they will have a source of funding readily available to them.

I hope the foreign policy review which is taking place will be successful. It is no harm to review foreign policy at this particular time. There are many issues affecting respective countries' foreign policies all over the globe at present. It is essential that our influence is seen, felt and recognised in that debate.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I again appeal to members to be brief.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am sorry about that, Chairman. I had a lot to get off my chest.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

First of all, I congratulate the Minister, Deputy Charles Flanagan, on his appointment. It is good to have a Laois man in charge of foreign affairs. I wish to ask two specific questions, the first of which is quite a simple one. It concerns what developments there are with regard to the appointment of an ambassador to the Holy See. I understand that Ms Emma Madigan is being considered for this post. I would like an update on that if there are any developments in that area.

The second and most important thing I want to raise is the transatlantic trade and investment partnership. It is a malign and secretive development, so I would like to establish clearly what Ireland's position is with regard to it. There seems to be a complete lack of clarity and co-ordination between different Departments. The central problem is the investor-state dispute settlement mechanism, which will allow corporations to sue governments before a panel of arbitrators without any other people having any representation. It is not subject to judicial review.

We already have a situation where tobacco companies are using mechanisms to sue states. Philip Morris is suing the governments of Uruguay and Australia which are trying to discourage people from smoking. The Occidental oil company was awarded $2.3 billion in compensation from Ecuador which terminated an agreement because they had violated Ecuadorian law. This is quite extraordinary and it comes within our remit because we are the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade.

In this context, I wish to ask about a letter signed with 13 other states by the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Richard Bruton. The letter stressed that the ISDS should be included. It insisted on it. That is quite extraordinary, particularly since it was not discussed either in the Dáil or the Seanad. This is a democracy. This is a most significant development that affects trade, human rights and the capacity of major corporations to sue individual countries outside the ordinary remit of the law.

In the absence of any debate in the Oireachtas, what was the authorisation for the Minister, Deputy Bruton, to sign this letter? Perhaps he did it accidentally. Perhaps it was just shoved across his desk, but there should be a full discussion of this matter.

A letter written by 120 legal experts pointed out that the planned ISDS deal would "extend the reach of the investment arbitration regime to levels of an entirely new order of magnitude". This is something that should be discussed by our representatives in both Houses of the Oireachtas. A strong position should be taken.

I did not mention the Middle East, but I strongly endorse what Deputy Brendan Smith said, and I will leave it at that.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Norris for his co-operation.

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister and hope he will go off script when I ask him some questions that have not been covered by him to date. I concur with the Minister, and I think the Chairman would concur also, that the embassy staff in Sierra Leone, mainly under the leadership of women, is spectacular. I join the Minister in praising the phenomenal work by that delegation. We knew about the really tough conditions there, even before Ebola hit the region. I would like our views and opinions to be added to the Minister's remarks.

I will turn now to more thorny issues, leaving Ebola aside. We should look at Ukraine and I want to ask the Minister some direct questions. As he is aware, Estonia ratified the association agreement with Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia. He knows the mess that has resulted in Ukraine, partly because of the EU's unsophisticated intelligence. Leaving that aside, however, has the Minister signed that agreement? He knows that Ukraine has lost the Crimea and has incredible difficulties in the east.

Moldova is in the eastern partnership with Transnistria on the border. Georgia, which confronted the Russians in the past, has South Ossetia. Does the Minister or the Government generally have any handle on understanding the mind of President Putin in Russia? That may be difficult until such time as we in Europe understand his political philosophy and if he feels threatened by Europe and NATO. There is an argument that we are now reverting rapidly back to a Cold War scenario. The Minister's opinions on that would be interesting.

The saviour of the world is the US Government. Will the Minister use his influence on the American Administration concerning what to me is the most outrageous contempt for international law? Small Irish companies are trying to establish trade links with Cuba. However, Irish banks have ceased allowing business people to use accounts for such trade because of the worldwide threat by the United States that any country daring to engage in trade links with Cuba will suffer phenomenal economic retaliation. We know how vulnerable we are to American investment in Ireland. The point that has been swept under the carpet is that one country, without the support of any international body, can determine who trades with Cuba.

We are discussing the relationship between Iran, the Baha'i and the plight of Christians throughout the world. The Baha'i have argued that there is a strong need to counter Islamophobia and I concur with them. Ireland has been transformed in such a short period from a monocultural society to a multicultural one. We have afforded Irish citizenship to 60,000 foreign nationals in the past four years. We have a hugely diverse country, including Sunni and Shia Moslems in Dublin and we want to engage with them. Is the Minister aware of the potential tensions existing on the ground between, for example, the relatively new Islamic group, Ahmadiyya, who have felt threatened since opening their mosque in Galway?

They feel that the mainstream Muslim groups are targeting them in a very threatening way.
I know that Irish Aid funds Africa Day, and it is also aware of the Diwali festival for Indians and various other ethnic festivals, including the Chinese spring festival. At this stage, however, could the Minister not recognise that rather than individual nations, such as the Chinese, Indians and others having their own days, including Africa Day, it is time for us to bring together all 120 diverse communities that exist in Ireland under the umbrella of this State and make it a wholesome, welcoming, warm, multidenominational, interdenominational, intercultural society? The Minister might use some funds from Irish Aid to that end. We do a lot of work in trying to bring peace and development all over the world, but we cannot forget what is going on in our own backyard.
I will conclude by asking the Minister one final question. He knows that we have to endorse an EU-Colombia free trade agreement. Some 18 countries in Europe have already signed it, while this country is waiting to sign it. I ask the Minister to do two things. First, he should recognise that Colombia is one of the most dangerous countries in the world for NGOs, Christian groups, trade unionists, academics, sociologists and philosophers. The murder rate is phenomenal. There is a parliamentarian in Colombia who is a senator, as is the former president of Colombia. He has had strong words in their parliament about conflict and the role that former President Uribe has played in the past with terrorists. He had his security guards removed from him. There is a policy over there whereby if one's life is threatened, they will afford the person security. His name is Ivan Zapata and he is an opposition senator. I ask the Minister to use his good offices to ask the authorities in Colombia to reinstate the security he requires.
The Minister might also offer his good services, and I said this when I was in Colombia, given that President Santos is in a complex, detailed peace process which is being held in Cuba. They are dealing with issues that we ourselves have dealt with in Northern Ireland. Will the Minister agree to help the Santos government with an offer of assistance to try to work with them to create a long-term, sustainable peace process? Part of that quid pro quowould be that we would recognise the need for security. I ask the Minister to intervene on behalf of Senator Ivan Zapata.
My last question relates-----

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

No. The Deputy should be fair. I have three more people who wish to contribute.

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is my last question. When the Minister refers to Palestine, what borders is he talking about recognising? Are they the 1967 borders?

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Some of the questions may have to be sent in writing to the Minister directly because he is not aware of some of them, including the question of prisoners in Colombia.

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He is the Minister for Foreign Affairs for all issues, not just European ones. With all due respect he is a Minister.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He may not have the answers off-hand for the Deputy.

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He is the senior Minister in the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I have three more people who wish to speak: Senator Mark Daly, Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan and Deputy Olivia Mitchell.

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

He does not mind going off script every so often to deal with other thorny issues.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I have problems staying on script.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I call Senator Daly.

Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister to the committee. I will follow on from what Deputy Byrne said about Colombia. We have a Euro-Med trade agreement with Israel which contains a human rights clause. It is entirely unenforceable, however, and does not have any trigger mechanism or review process. It simply does not work. We know that because following the last six attacks in Gaza there has been no triggering of the Euro-Med agreement's human rights clause, despite attacks on UN compounds. I would ask, therefore, that before Ireland signs up to any trade agreement with Colombia, we would ensure that the human rights clause for which Ireland fought is actually workable and includes trigger and review mechanisms.

I also wish to ask for an update on the situation of undocumented Irish in America. President Obama is about to sign an executive order concerning his powers and what he can do for the 50,000 undocumented Irish people. Perhaps the Minister would consider pushing for a humanitarian visa not only for the 50,000 undocumented Irish but also the 12 million others residing in the United States who cannot leave and return. A humanitarian visa should be part of the executive order, which would allow them to leave in time of bereavement and distress to their families at home while being able to return to the United States. The Government should push for that.

I would like to get the Minister's views on votes for the Irish diaspora overseas. The Minister of State, Deputy Deenihan, has been talking about this matter, but having it solely in presidential elections is simply not enough. There are only eight countries in the world that confine votes for their diaspora to presidential elections, and all of those have executive presidents with powers similar to those of President Obama. Perhaps the Minister would consider expanding that option for the Irish overseas and those living in Northern Ireland to vote not only in presidential elections but also in Seanad elections.

Is it possible to upgrade our mission in Ramallah to embassy status, thus taking a step towards recognition?

At some future date, could we have a joint meeting with the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement? I know the Minister is very much engaged in the process at the moment, but it is one of the biggest and longest-lasting conflicts in Europe. We are hoping that it is at a permanent peace but because of the historical legacy and issues over flags and parades, it has the potential to come back with a vengeance at any time. I ask the Minister to addresses this matter in his reply, including how the situation is progressing and how he sees it evolving.

Recently, I attended an interparliamentary conference in Rome. If the Minister had been there, he would have been disturbed to hear the language coming from our Italian hosts. They were essentially talking about a European army and the ability of Europe to intervene in the same way as the United States intervenes at the moment. They were not talking about having a common defence policy in the short term, but they obviously want to have such a policy in the long term. In addition, they said that we need to gradually create a European army.

On 12 September 2013, a European Parliament resolution referred to efforts within the Council to increase the flexibility and usability of battle groups, transfer of authority and removal of national caveats. That would basically remove Ireland's veto over the deployment of battle groups. That was the language being used not just by the Italians but also by members of other parliaments. I tried to insert language in the communiqué of that conference to mention Irish neutrality and our insistence that there would not be a European army. We have a triple lock mechanism, so we do not and will not deploy our troops unless there is a UN mandate to do so. That was resisted, however.

Worse again is talk in the European Parliament about removing Ireland's national caveat, that is, our veto over the deployment of troops. They were even talking about having a blank cheque, basically, the ability to get a resolution passed for the deployment of troops on undetermined future missions for unspecified causes. I do not know how the European Parliament passed a resolution talking about the transfer of authority and the removal of national caveats, but it certainly did.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Can we have a question, if the Senator does not mind?

Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Could the Minister raise that matter with his colleagues in the Council? In future, all language in such resolutions should refer to Irish neutrality, which they refused to insert in that resolution.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I remind Members that the decisions made at the Rome meeting are not binding.

Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

They are not binding but the package is disturbing.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade with responsibility for the diaspora will be here on 17 November. He has confirmed that he will also visit us before then. I call Deputy O'Sullivan.

Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

My first question is on the overseas budget on which the President took the opportunity to comment. During his current visit to Africa he made the point about feeding children on 80 cent a day and to be short of 80c is a scandal to humanity. I want to acknowledge what Irish Aid, the NGOs and our missionaries do with the funding that has already been committed to them. We need additional funding for emergencies like the Ebola virus because we cannot divert funding that has already been committed to groups, organisations and issues in the development world. I acknowledge that ODA was not cut in the budget but a rate of 0.37% means we have moved further away from 0.7%. Can we have a commitment that we will not divert money from what has been already committed? How can we increase the rate back up towards 0.7%?

I share the views expressed about TTIP and Colombia but there is a bigger picture about business and human rights. Regarding the Colombian issue, I want to use the words expressed by communities in Colombia. For example, Putumayo has asked us not to ratify the free trade agreement because it will create more violence, displacement and destroy their communities and national environment. For Colombia an FTA only means more hunger, destruction and death. I ask the Minister to examine the matter again and ask the Dáil not to ratify the agreement.

I have two specific questions on Syria. Where does Ireland stand on the issue? Does Ireland view President Assad as the legitimate authority or not?

The Cuban banking issue has been mentioned. It has huge implications because what the banks are doing here is against the EU but the EU has no sanctions against Cuba. There are also implications if we want to address our trade with Iran because it is also on the sanctions list with America. Embassies have been mentioned and I have a question on the embassy in Iran.

The Minister mentioned an issue about Northern Ireland which is welcome. There are persistent issues about prisoners in Northern Ireland that a group of us here have pursued. I refer to the human rights of prisoners in Maghaberry Prison, for example, which very much undermines the peace agreement. We have written to the Minister and hope to have a meeting with him on the matter.

Recently a UN resolution on the establishment of a multilateral legal framework for sovereign debt restructuring processes was approved. I want to know how we are going to implement the resolution and where we are at present.

We have talked about a two-state solution. I was in the West Bank a month ago. Therefore, I know there will not be two states left for Palestinians to be part of a two-state solution because every moment there are Palestinian homes being destroyed due to new settlements. The Foreign Affairs Council has passed all these resolutions but they have been so ineffective. We have seen resolutions for Gaza, the West Bank, settlement goods, Libya and many places but nobody pays any attention to them which is most regrettable.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy O'Sullivan who has been very co-operative as usual. I call Deputy Mitchell.

Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I shall begin by congratulating the Minister on his promotion and thank him for his presentation. I assure the Chairman that I shall be as quick as I can. I join with the Minister in congratulating our embassy staff who are working on the Ebola crisis in Sierra Leone along with the NGOs and volunteers who have gone to the region. As he said, they have undertaken challenging and dangerous work. I am sure it is heartening for them to learn there is the prospect of bringing Ebola under control again, albeit it is just a prospect at this stage.
I listened carefully to what the Minister said about Palestine. We have all heard about Sweden's position. Plus the Seanad has adopted a position and is in favour of recognising the State of Palestine. I carefully noted that he said the position is being monitored and the policy position is being kept under consideration. Later he mentioned that he did not rule out taking the same position as Sweden. To me that sounds like a policy shift, albeit he just signalled the potential of such a shift. It is movement and is borne out of what motivated the Seanad and Sweden to act. I refer to the utter frustration that we all feel about what is not happening in terms of a two-state solution. That cause is not moving forward and becomes more remote with every passing day. I have great sympathy with the position expressed by Sweden, the Seanad and others. Our favoured position is a negotiated comprehensive solution. Another preferred position is to take a common European approach if possible. There may come a day when it will become obvious that is not possible and we will have to move ahead. I am just glad that we are keeping that door open if not going through it just yet.
A number of people have mentioned the investor state dispute settlement. I am interested in the clause in the trade talks with the US. On the one side, we have heard it gives huge power to international companies to sue individual countries. On the other hand, we have been told that it is an essential clause to safeguard inward investment. I am interested in hearing the Minister's take on the situation.
With regard to the talks on sustainable development goals which are taking place in the UN, we have some leverage because its joint chair is one of our own. I have a particular interest in two areas. I am chairperson on the all-party group on maternal care and health, population and development. I also have an interest in gender issues. Earlier we had a meeting, organised by Deputy Eric Byrne, to which he invited a group of disabled persons from the Philippines. It was an opportunity for them to lobbied on behalf of the disabled. They were anxious to ensure that disability is included in the new development goals to be attained by 2030. Both gender and disability issues are in the proposed goals which is welcome. The gender issues were inserted at a late stage during the negotiations of the millennium development goals but disability issues did not really appear at all. We are pretty much at the end game of the sustainable goals now. Therefore, I ask the Minister to use whatever leverage we have to ensure that both the gender and disabilities issues are given priority and do not slip off the agenda again.
Chairman:The final contributor is Senator Mullins.

Michael Mullins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister and thank him for a very comprehensive report on the many issues being dealt by him and his Department. I wish him much success in his new role as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade.

I wish to follow up on Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan's questions about the political legitimacy of President Assad and where Ireland stood on the issue. Does the Minister agree that President Assad's impunity has undermined the fight against the Islamic State?

Figures show that there are 3 million Syrian refugees. The whole of Europe has only taken 1% of them to date even though we know that Syrian families are fleeing ISIS in their thousands. In three days Turkey took in more refugees than Europe has taken in three years. Lebanon has taken in 1.6 million refugees thus increasing its population by 36% but the UK has only taken in 54 refugees.

Does the Minister envisage that Ireland will be in a position to accept some additional refugees from Syria over the next number of months?
Concerns have been expressed regarding calls by the UN Syria mediator, Mr. de Mistura, for local truces. The concerns are that, as proven in the past, a truce is merely a pause and an opportunity for the regime to regroup, rearm and continue its war at a more favourable time. Does the Minister share that concern? Members have spoken on many occasions about the Iranian involvement in Syria. Many members felt it is time for EU governments and other bodies to examine the Iranian connection but does the Minister share the belief that it is time to seriously examine the involvement of Iran in the Syrian conflict?
The Minister indicated that at the November Foreign Affairs Council meeting there would be discussion of issues relating to Bosnia and Herzegovina. It has been indicated to me that the UK foreign secretary, Mr. Philip Hammond, and the German foreign minister, Mr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, have attempted to create a fait accomplion EU policy towards Bosnia with an initiative announced in Berlin last Wednesday. In it, they advocate removing the requirement adopted by all member states for Bosnia and Herzegovina to change its constitution in order to implement the European Court of Human Rights decision from almost five years ago. The authors state that doing so would allow the stabilisation and association agreement, SAA, with Bosnia, signed in 2008 but never put into effect, to be activated. This ruling, which called on Bosnia to ensure the rights of all citizens of age to run for all political offices, regardless of ethnic self-identification, became an EU condition precisely because it was contingent on the EU's own requirement for respect for fundamental rights and freedoms.
What message does the reduction of EU conditionality send to Bosnian politicians about the EU's firmness? There were many written commitments by Bosnia's political leaders which remain unfulfilled, without any consequences, going back a decade. What position will Ireland take at next week's Foreign Affairs Council meeting to develop the German-British initiative into a coherent and strategic EU policy to promote real reform in Bosnia and Herzegovina? Ireland has been very supportive of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the past and I am interested in hearing the Minister's response in that regard.
Senator Norris referred to the Irish Ambassador to the Holy See. When is it hoped that the proposed ambassador, Ms Emma Madigan, will be in a position to present her credentials to Pope Francis? Where will the embassy be accommodated and is there any possibility that the Villa Spada can be used to house our embassy to the Holy See? Given its significance in the past and the link going back many years, it would be appreciated. There is much support for the possibility so will the Minister update us on what is happening?

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There were many questions but some may be related so it could be better to deal with the subject matter rather than each individual question. Some of our members, led by the Vice Chairman, were in Rome last week and met the new ambassador to the Holy See.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We will deal with the replies by topic, although there may be an element of repetition, as Deputies would appreciate. I acknowledge the opening comments of Deputy Smith, the Fianna Fáil spokesperson.

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

How will we deal with the vote in the Dáil?

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We will suspend as most of the members present are Deputies.

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We could afford the Minister time to consult with his officials.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There is no need as the Minister is perfectly capable. He does not need to consult his officials.

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It could be a tea break.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | 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.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Minister has approximately 20 minutes with us because he has to take an important telephone call from the United States. I will hand over to the Minister immediately.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Thank you, Chairman. I can be back by 6.30 p.m. if members want to resume then.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

No, I think we will get it over in 20 minutes.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | 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.

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is splendid.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I imagine everyone will join me in wishing her every success in her role, function and duties. Like the committee members last week I, too, look forward to paying a visit in the not-too-distant future.

Deputy Crowe and others mentioned Syria and the difficult situation there. Deputy O’Sullivan made a particular point on the matter. I do not believe that President Assad or his associates can expect to play any form of leadership role or have any responsibility in a post-conflict Syria.

The simple fact is that the militia and the state forces that continue to fight under Assad's command have been responsible for the commission of the majority of atrocities against the Syrian people. That should be borne in mind at every level.

Senator Mullins mentioned the issue of the resettlement of refugees. Ultimate responsibility in that regard is with my colleague, the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Fitzgerald, with whom I have spoken on a number of occasions. Sixty persons of Syrian origin have arrived in Ireland to date. A further 12 Syrian nationals are due to arrive on 3 December, bringing the total to 90. I am aware that local authorities on the matter of housing, the Health Service Executive on the matter of health care and the resettlement programme are all actively engaged in this regard. I would be happy to report on progress perhaps early in the new year, but we are doing everything in our power to ensure an appropriate transition in what is a very difficult time for the refugees and their families. Resettlement is not an answer to the conflict by any means, and that should be borne in mind on all occasions.

Deputy Byrne mentioned Colombia. On the specific case involving the individual he mentioned, I undertake to revert to him if not by the end of the week then by early next week.

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I would be very glad to give the Minister the documentation.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I would be happy to take it.

The situation regarding the Colombian peace process is being monitored by my officials in the Department. Ireland is fully supportive of the process and is ready to assist in any way we can. Deputy Byrne asked that I would intervene by way of offering support. The Deputy can be assured that while I will not intervene, we are available to give of our expertise and experience in any way that might be-----

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Would the Irish ambassador and the Colombian ambassador in London be made aware of that?

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am sure, but it will not be a question of intervening-----

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Minister would not be intervening; he would be offering.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Should any invitation be sought-----

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

After all, they are accepting assistance from former terrorists in Northern Ireland.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Allow the Minister speak.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

-----I am sure it will receive appropriate consideration.

Deputy Crowe mentioned the Ibrahim Halawa case. I do not wish to go into detail other than to state that we are continuously monitoring the situation. I have been to Cairo. Our ambassador is actively engaged. Our wish is that this boy be freed to come home to resume his studies. I have met the family on a number of occasions and will continue to keep in close contact with them. I refer members to Dáil debates and parliamentary questions in that regard.

Senator Daly raised a number of issues with particular reference to our neutrality. Senator Daly is not present and with the Chairman's permission I will send him a note on that.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is fine.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I do not wish to reply by way of oral answer but I will send him a note.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Minister might send the same note to the committee secretariat so they can distribute it to the members.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I will do that.

On immigration reform, I know the Chairman had active engagement when he visited the United States during the summer. Now that the elections have taken place the situation is such that if there is an initiative it is most likely it will be by way of Executive action on the part of the President. I visited Washington in September and had a conversation with the White House Chief of Staff, Denis McDonough, among others. I mentioned the issue to the Secretary of State, John Kerry, and stressed the importance, as I know the Chairman did, of addressing the needs and concerns of the undocumented Irish migrants in any such Executive action, with particular reference to the right to travel. I can reassure the committee that our team in Washington, through the good offices of our ambassador, Anne Anderson, is actively involved and engaged and we are doing all we can to ensure that we can influence this issue, having regard to the limits on what administrative action is likely to be able to do. I welcome the support of all members of the committee in that regard. Obviously, the recent elections will influence the timing and nature of whatever executive action the President may have in mind.

I thank Senator Norris and Deputy O'Sullivan for raising the issue of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, TTIP. There is not any secrecy about it. I would be concerned if elected Members of the Irish Parliament were to form the view that there is some secrecy involved. I urge that the matter be raised at parliamentary level if people have concerns. I have been in touch with my colleague, the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Richard Bruton, who is the lead Minister in this regard. I have a copy of the letter to which Senator Norris made reference. I would stress opportunities for trade, employment and further economic growth. Notwithstanding that, it is important that the process be open and transparent. Dáil questions have been tabled on the matter and I have no doubt-----

David Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The power of the multinational companies is frightening under this-----

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I accept what Senator Norris says but we are a sovereign Parliament and I believe we should have an opportunity to debate the issues. The negotiations provide a valuable opportunity to create a new generation ISDS model that would address the concerns raised here and in the Dáil by way of parliamentary questions. I will convey the views of the members to my colleague, the Minister, Deputy Richard Bruton. Ultimately, what we need to strive for is a fair and reasonable option to which investors would have recourse for legitimate reasons. I would be happy to convey the views of the meeting to the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation.

On the matter of Ukraine, Deputy Smith raised the issue of the current ceasefire and the security situation in eastern Ukraine. I stress, and he will agree, that it is crucial for all sides to fully subscribe and implement the commitments to which they signed up in September in Minsk. Reports in recent days of renewed shelling and increased movement of troops and heavy equipment in the separatist areas are disturbing. This issue will be very high on the agenda next week at European Union level.

On the question of sanctions, they will be dependent on the evolving situation on the ground. We will review the situation on Monday.

Deputy Byrne mentioned the specific issue of the association agreements. I hope we would be in a position to complete the agreements not only in respect of Ukraine but also on the matter of Georgia and Moldova.

I hope these association agreements will be brought before the Dáil over the coming months and the ratification process can be completed. I would be happy to engage directly with Deputy Eric Byrne on that issue.

Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan raised the issue of funding for combating Ebola. There is no diversion of funds in this respect. She will appreciate, however, that much of the funding for the region is administered by non-governmental organisations and we are very well-served on the ground in the stricken areas. I am conscious of the need to ensure the overseas development aid budget is maintained and reserved for what it is designed to do. Funding for the Ebola virus relief is ring-fenced.

Deputy Crowe inquired of Bahrain. As he is not present, I will drop a note on that to the committee secretariat later.

I was directly engaged at the September UN General Assembly about the issue of the millennium development goals. Ireland’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Mr. David Donoghue, was appointed, along with his counterpart in Kenya, to jointly lead the co-facilitation negotiations on the post-2015 agenda, including the organisation of the modalities for the intergovernmental negotiations and remaining issues. It is an area in which the Irish reputation is very high. Deputy Olivia Mitchell can be assured that Mr. Donoghue will continue in that vein. I am sure the committee will have an opportunity of directly negotiating with Mr. Donoghue. He is quite enthusiastic about his position. It is important Ireland is in a lead role in this area.

I will speak to Senator Mullins privately on the issue of the relaxation of the EU admission criteria for Bosnia in private. On the Northern situation, I would be happy to come back to address a joint meeting with the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement. I have spoken to the Minister for Justice and Equality on the matter of prisoners. I know she is taking an initiative in that regard.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is important we do not rush into giving answers on that matter this evening and that we have a joint meeting with the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement some time.

The last update on foreign affairs issues with a Minister was with the former Minister, Deputy Gilmore, last July. Much has happened since then. As this was the first meeting with Deputy Charles Flanagan since his appointment, there was a wide range of questions. I am aware the Minister must leave to take an important telephone call at 6 p.m. Will the Minister come back to the committee in the new year with further updates?

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I would be happy to do so.

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I know the Minister has to leave. However, what is his opinion on the US embargo on trade with Cuba? What is he doing about making funds available to create an integrated society to incorporate the 60,000 new Irish citizens from 120 different nations? Rather than giving moneys for an Africa Day, will he give funding for a multicultural event?

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The second question comes under the remit of the Minister of State, Deputy Deenihan.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose the Minister will send a written statement on this evening’s unanswered questions to the committee.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am also conscious of members who asked questions but who are not here to listen to the answers.

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That always happens.

I accept this has been a wide-ranging and open debate and it can be difficult to deal with specific questions such as those on prisoners. I thank the Minister for attending the committee. He has been working extremely hard on the Northern Ireland issue and I wish him well in his discussions on Monday. There are other issues such as the imminent famine in South Sudan which concern the committee. I also thank his officials for attending the meeting.

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the Chairman and those members who stayed for the meeting.