Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Regarding the last suggestion by the Deputy, that is a matter for Members to decide. There are strongly held views on this matter. It is important, from a Government point of view, that in saying we are even-handed we are not ambiguous about the need to stand up for what is right, fair and just in all the circumstances.

It is an issue which has not been amenable to solution, despite the best diplomatic efforts of many. As we know from our own peace process, the need for people to directly engage is a fundamental part of building a process that is sustainable and resilient against those who would attack the process. In that respect, I welcome the prospect of an Israeli Government supporting a two-state solution, in view of the fact that the Israeli Labour Party, I understand, is indicating its preparedness to join the Netanyahu Government.

I hope people like Ehud Barak and others will be able to temper the policy positions of that Government in a way that would be helpful to the situation generally and pursue a diplomatic course that might enable the leadership in Palestine to respond appropriately as well.

Regarding the first matter, it might be premature to set up such a commission until such time as we see the conclusions arising out of the European Council to our satisfaction. I am aware the commission has a view as to what it regards as the optimum position, from its point of view, but we have a position where we have to get political agreement, more than likely at the June European Council meeting. Conclusions have to be satisfactory. We can then make a political decision as to where we go from there. We need to do that within a time frame that is before the tenure of the new Commission.

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