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

It is important to remember that Ireland has a proud record of supporting Palestinian communities. This year marks 40 years since Brian Lenihan Snr., as Minister for Foreign Affairs, declared support, in what I believe was the first time in the western world, for an independent Palestinian state. That support is developed, enhanced and put into action by the likes of Irish Aid, which the Deputy mentioned, and our people on the ground.

The Deputy is right that it is of significant concern that the structures being demolished are donor-funded by Ireland in particular. It is extremely important that recompense for humanitarian relief be pursued. The European Council is due to discuss Israel and the Mediterranean neighbourhood in December. It is important that we pursue this issue consistently through the West Bank Protection Consortium. We are doing that. It is the practice of the consortium to raise the issue directly with the Israeli authorities. To date, we have seen €625,000 recovered in respect of demolished assets. That continues; it has not ended.

The Government fully supports the right of both Israelis and Palestinians to live in freedom, prosperity and security under governments of their choosing in states of their own and at peace with each other. We continue to work with our EU and international partners to support the realisation of this goal. Ireland will continue to engage on this issue and we will be tough. I will pass Deputy Kenny's comments on to the Minister but it is the case that the Irish authorities are in regular contact on this matter with the Israeli authorities at the highest level. We will support political efforts to encourage a resumption of direct negotiations, which are the only way to achieve peace and the two-state solution.

Our support also includes action on the ground on human rights and justice issues affecting Palestinians under occupation, including civilian deaths. The longer these continue, the more they progressively endanger the prospects of an agreement. Ireland provides financial support to NGOs which are active in bringing to light and combating human rights abuses in the area. Our missions work closely with NGOs, including through regular reporting and monitoring visits. I thank the Deputy for raising this matter. The Government is absolutely committed to raising these issues.

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