Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We often have these discussions in respect of acting unilaterally on the assumption that Ireland doing something on a unilateral basis will force fundamental change internationally. That is not always the way it works. From my experience of international politics, you must build consensus and coalitions around change and pressure, which is why we are putting pressure on Russia as a collective in the EU. Does the Deputy think Ireland on its own would be able to change direction? I doubt it.

As already stated, the Government has been proactive in raising the issue of Palestinian prisoners across a range of multilateral fora, as well as in our bilateral contacts with Israel. We will continue to do that. I reiterate Ireland's commitment to the rights of all detainees to a fair trial and our strong support for calls to end the practice of administrative detention. Ireland's approach to this issue as part of our overall policy relating to the Middle East peace process, which emphasises the role of international law and international humanitarian law, will remain a priority.

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