Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

Ireland has taken a very strong interest in the Middle East peace process, particularly the situation on the West Bank and in Gaza. I have conveyed our concerns in clear terms at meetings of the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union. I set them out clearly in my statement to the United Nations General Assembly last September. The Deputy and other Members urged me strongly in the House to visit the Middle East to see the situation for myself and engage in discussions. I have done this at the highest level with both the Palestinian and Israeli sides. My meeting with the Israeli Prime Minister, Mr. Netanyahu, lasted for almost one and a half hours and involved full discussions on what was needed to advance the situation. Everybody agrees that if there is to be a two-state solution, it must be negotiated. There are many issues to be resolved, including the issue of boundaries. The matter has become more complex as a result of the settlement problem. The most constructive role that Ireland and the European Union can play is to engage in that process and encourage both sides to engage in meaningful discussions with a view to finding a lasting settlement.

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