Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

Our Defence Forces procure equipment on the basis of the most effective equipment available to meet the specification competitively tendered. The Defence Forces have in recent years purchased defensive equipment such as helmets from Israeli companies on the basis of effectiveness and best value. That is the scale of our engagement in that regard.

Our view is that trade boycotts are not the way forward. Ultimately, there must be dialogue. Much depends on what happens post-election in Israel. Our view is that all parties to this historic conflict need to engage in finding a resolution that will lead to durable peace. We welcome the prioritisation given to this issue by President Obama. Prior to the US presidential election, the main concern of European foreign ministers was would the next American Administration make this issue its number one priority from day one. The statement by President Obama that he will aggressively pursue the issue and the appointment of George Mitchell are important signals. Let us not, however, understate the challenges that lie ahead in terms of working towards a solution. As regards Ban Ki-moon, I welcome what has happened. I will not overstate the degree to which we can leverage any more in that respect.

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