Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That is a matter on which the Tánaiste is reflecting. The question of embassies and consular offices, and facilities are handled after consideration. I will bring that to his notice following the Deputy raising it here. Ireland has always been seen to be very supportive of peaceful settlements and so on. We have made repeated interventions in respect of expansion of settlements. Many Members of the House from different parties have been to Gaza and the West Bank to visit communities and talk to the people. It has been a few years since I was there as an Opposition Member. It brings home the difficulties and challenges many people face. I recently spoke to a young engineer who has gone to work for a couple of years in Gaza on a contract related to water. It was a revelation.

In so far as we can assist the process started again by the US Secretary of State, Mr. Kerry, we will. There is always a series of complications when one goes there to see one strain against the other. I will raise the issue the Deputy mentioned with the Tánaiste for his consideration later this year when decisions on consular offices and embassy appointments are being made.

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