Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The difference is that they were looked after. They were not forced to remain refugees for generations which sadly is what has happened to Palestinians in many other parts of the region. So there are parallels but there are also huge differences and I have just touched on a few.

Deputy Haughey raised Melilla and Ceuta and migration. The recent tragic events in the Mediterranean highlight once again the need to deal with migration in a comprehensive and holistic way and to make sure we have agreements with countries of origin or countries of transit like Morocco. While the social, economic and political stresses arising from the crisis are very considerable, Ireland is committed to continuing the work with our EU partners to ensure the humanitarian and legal obligations continue to be met. Last week we received an update from the European Commission on progress made implementing the conclusions adopted at the special meeting of the European Council in February. The focus of that meeting was on co-operation with third countries, strengthening the EU's external borders and more efficient return of those without the right to stay in the EU. Last week, the European Council called for swift implementation of all items agreed upon. We will return to the issue of migration at our meeting in June.

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