Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

When Sinn Féin was occupied with other states' issues we were very strong on this and we remain very strong on this. When the Taoiseach was Minister for Foreign Affairs, he visited Palestine at that time as well, as have some of my party colleagues. We will continue to prioritise the Middle East peace process on the Security Council. We will do whatever we can to advance efforts towards a just and normal peace. We resolutely oppose annexation. Any such moves are illegal under international law and jeopardise the prospect of a viable and sovereign Palestinian state. Any announcements Israel is making on suspending plans to annex parts of the occupied territories are welcome but these plans need to be permanently withdrawn.

Everyone speaks of solidarity with Ireland but the practical measures from member states are real as well. When the Taoiseach spoke of Michel Barnier's priorities for the negotiations, he almost understated it. When Mr. Barnier, or Mr. Maroš Šefčovič from the Commission speaks, their number one priority is peace on the island of Ireland. The understanding these key individuals have about our country, North and South, the difficulties there and the Border is incredible. The Minister for Foreign Affairs and my predecessor, Deputy McEntee, brought many ministers over to the Border and they still talk about that. Those visits to the Border were very useful to let people know the reality of life on the ground. Many of Deputy Ó Murchú's constituents and many constituents in south County Armagh and south County Down met other European colleagues and that has had a profound impact on the negotiations and it was welcome.

Regarding other practical solidarity measures, the Brexit adjustment fund was sought by Ireland and Belgium. It is a €5 billion fund for countries and sectors most affected by Brexit. We are the most affected and officials are working with the Commission on this. Many hands will be up of course whenever money becomes available. The PEACE PLUS programme is a hugely significant financial commitment from the EU and the State. It goes back to the shared island concept. It has been matched by us and expanded on by the Government. It is a huge gesture of solidarity. Money from the EU will be spent in the North of Ireland despite the fact that it is leaving the Union. I thank our European colleagues for this. One of the issues I will work, which the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform is very concerned about, is to ensure that in future years we avail of whatever discretionary funding is available from Europe to the best of our abilities and make sure we get as much as possible. I thank everyone for their contributions and I will follow up on any specifics directly with Members.

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