Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There are several issues on which we can continue to engage but working with our partners in the EU is the most direct and important way to exercise real and lasting influence. The EU has taken several actions to differentiate clearly between Israel and the illegal Israeli settlements. I point to a ban on EU research funding going to settlements, to not accepting Israeli certification for meat from settlements, to advising against investing in settlements and to requiring accurate labelling of settlement goods. Moreover, other actions continue to be considered on an ongoing basis. We are also considering what steps to take about demolition of EU-funded structures in the West Bank. In many of these areas, Ireland continues to argue for an even stronger response. Our partners do not always all agree, as is the case in all negotiations. We also support local Israeli and Palestinian non-government organisations, NGOs, which seek to advance human rights, justice and stability on the ground in very challenging circumstances.

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