Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The reality is that the settlements are continuing. I want to acknowledge the Israeli opposition to this as well. The vote in the Knesset was 60 to 52 and the Government's top lawyer has called it unconstitutional.

A number of Israeli NGOs are actively opposing this regulation Bill. I acknowledge the information that SADAKA has sent. Many parliaments have voted to recognise a Palestinian state but it is not followed up by the governments. It has to be asked if we are just paying lip service to the idea of a Palestinian state. The European Parliament also voted in favour of the recognition. Sweden has had the moral gumption to stand up and there are no signs of any deterioration in its relationship with Israel. Why can Ireland not also do that? As the Minister has said, it is violating international law and going against the United Nations Security Council. There will be nothing left for Palestine to call a state if we continue to do nothing.

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