Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I thank Deputies Kenny and Gilmore who have indicated their willingness to speak to their respective EU colleagues at the meetings they will attend in the run-up to the European Council on Friday. It is important everyone understands the Irish position is about seeking substance and status of the language in the treaty and to provide reassurance to our people regarding certain concerns raised in the last referendum.

The Middle East issue came up at recent talks between the US President, Mr. Obama, the European Council and certain invited states. I was asked by the EU Presidency to say a few words on it. I emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach to include Syria. I believe engagement with Syria is important in finding a comprehensive solution to this problem. I welcome President Obama's recent statement in Cairo. It was an important statement with the clarity and balance required for the Untied States to be an effective partner in this process. It will put it centre stage with the influence it can apply. He was unambiguous in calling for a stop to the continuing expansion of settlements in the occupied territories, which I welcome. The Israeli Government needed to hear this message. I also welcome the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, publicly stating for the first time that he would support a two-state solution. However, as the Deputy noted, the conditionality attached to that statement drew a highly negative response from Palestinians. This conditionality seeks to impose conditions on the so-called state of Palestine that might deny Palestinians the right to defend their territory in the same manner that Israel would expect to be able to defend its own territory. The entire purpose of a peace process is to ease tensions and to find a just way forward. In my opinion, what one has heard from the Obama Administration thus far bodes well for its effective engagement in that process.

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