Seán Haughey (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Ireland has enjoyed close economic, social and cultural ties with the French Republic for many years. Some 225 years ago in the Year of the French, French forces came to our aid in the 1798 rebellion, as the Taoiseach referred to. There are now 30,000 French citizens living and working in Ireland. It is therefore appropriate and timely to review the co-operation agreement between our two countries, which was signed in 2021. I welcome the plans announced to enhance energy co-operation, business links and cultural ties between Ireland and France. We like to believe we punch above our weight when it comes to international relations. France is a global power and under President Macron, it certainly punches in accordance with its weight in foreign affairs. In the Taoiseach's talks with the Prime Minister, Élisabeth Borne, were they able to agree on what now needs to be done regarding the crisis in Israel and Gaza? Like Ireland, the French President called for a humanitarian ceasefire early on in the crisis. Was there agreement on the need for a renewed political process to bring long-term peace and stability to the region based on a two-state solution? Did the Taoiseach get the impression from the Prime Minister that France will give decisive leadership in this regard?

While I am on my feet, I would like to warmly welcome the release of Irish-Israeli hostage Emily Hand. Her release represents a triumph for Irish diplomacy. Every effort must now be made to extend the truce and bring about the release of all of the Israeli hostages taken by Hamas and other militant groups.

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