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

It is important that every effort be made on the part of politicians both in the region and on the international stage to ensure there is a meaningful process, without which people on both extremes resort to violence. It is important, in the first instance, that a measure of respect be shown to the status quoon the matter of holy places and sites. Full respect must be restored and maintained.

It is the continued view of the Government that a negotiated two-state solution is the objective and the most important goal of this country and the European Union. It is important that we ask the question of what is the alternative. There does not appear to be any convincing response other than the continued objective of a two-state solution. That will involve vision and leadership which must primarily come from within the Israeli and Palestinian groups. The international community has a role to play. It is important that it continue to persevere and that we do not under any circumstances abandon hope as we have a strong and positive role to play in bringing the parties together around the table. From our perspective on the island of Ireland, we may have a continued positive and active role to play in that regard.

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