Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am conscious of the difficult and challenging situation in the region. I believe that as an important first step, Mr. Netanyahu should now proceed to form his Government. I expect that this will be finalised in the next few weeks. I have had an opportunity to visit the region and see at first hand the difficulties and challenges involved. I assure the Deputy that the Government's approach to the recognition of Palestine, as set out in detail during a debate in this Chamber before Christmas, involves achieving and recognising a Palestinian state. That has always been the objective of the Government and our policies are directed towards that aim. I would like to repeat what I have made clear on numerous occasions, which is that I have absolutely no difficulty in principle with the idea of recognition if I believe that can contribute to achieving a lasting settlement of the conflict. Indeed, I continue to reflect on what early recognition could mean for Palestine and for Ireland's influence in this critical and important issue.

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