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

As the Deputy will know, I have discussed many of these options many times. We have taken advice from the Attorney General about what we can and cannot do. We have received very clear answers from three Attorneys General in a row in relation to the occupied territories Bill. I repeat that Ireland could decide to do things that will gain the support of this House but the question we need to ask is whether it would make a difference on the ground to Palestinians. Would it protect children, women and innocent civilians who have been caught up in this war? Those are the questions we have to keep asking ourselves. How does Ireland maximise its influence in the context of bringing about peace? How do we ensure we keep communication channels open with those who are influential in bringing about peace, including the Israeli Government? Unlike some in this Chamber who would simply cut diplomatic ties with Israel, which I believe would be a mistake, the Government is trying to engage and is having the difficult discussions that are necessary to express our concern, frustration and anxiety about what is happening.

At the same time we are trying to impact how the European Union collectively responds and how Washington can continue to be influential over what is happening in Israel. We have been engaging with the Arab world as well. That is the approach we need to continue to take and it is the approach that has managed to assist in getting many Irish people out of Gaza. I hope it is an approach that can also impact on moving away from war, violence, carnage and loss, and towards a peace process that can deliver something much better in the future.

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