Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein)
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I thank Professor Lynk for his contribution. I might follow on from a few of my colleagues' questions. Deputy Clarke referred to recommendation no. 62 of the special rapporteur’s report. In seeking to re-establish the special committee against apartheid, does Ireland have a special window of opportunity to focus on that, given our position on the UN Security Council, and should it do so? How important is that position in this context?

I appreciate Professor Lynk did not want to state a view on the legal advice relating to the occupied territories Bill, but one of the main complaints expressed by both me and Senator Black as it was passing through the Seanad related to the fact the Government would not publish that advice. Would it be helpful if it were at least to publish the Attorney General's advice and to allow us to see how the view was formed that there would be illegalities or whatever else in regard to progressing the Bill?

These Houses have passed a motion calling on the Government to recognise the state of Palestine. I am keen to hear what Ireland can do, as a Government and a State, in practical, tangible terms regarding this issue. Given what Professor Lynk said about the two-state solution, how important now is the decision of states and governments throughout the world to recognise the state of Palestine?