Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

On the comment on common foreign and security policy at EU level, that is a decision to be taken by the General Affairs and External Relations Council and, indeed, the European Council should it come up for discussion at that level. We have made our position clear. It is well known and appreciated by those who are interested in this area. We have had a consistent view on this matter.

I do not accept the reference to apartheid governments in South Africa as being a relevant reference point. While one might fundamentally disagree with Israel's policies, it is a democratic country which elects its government, the same as here. The policy in regard to the two state solution is the right of Israel to live in peace and security and the right of the Palestinians to have a viable Palestinian state.

We condemn all violence in the Middle East and we hold no brief for any infringement of human rights in respect of the conduct of military operations. What happened in Gaza was greatly regrettable; it was appalling. We have made our position very clear. It is also appalling that rockets were sent from within that area into Israel. I believe in a proportionate response and the need for great care to be taken in respect of civilian populations. All of these international conventions must be respected. The position of the Government is crystal clear on these matters. It is in the interests of obtaining a fair and just solution in the Middle East that we have taken these positions.

The point the Deputy raised suggests that a better way to bring about that solution is that we suspend the Euro-Mediterranean Association Agreement with Israel. Based on what the Deputy said, I am not convinced that would be something which would bring about a resolution to the wider problem more quickly.

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