Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I will come back to the Deputies generally when that progresses somewhere, but it is being actively pursued by the Irish Government with the Jordanian Government. I met with the King when I was in Jordan recently. He and the Jordanian Government are very appreciative of the role Ireland has taken internationally at the various forums, particularly within the European Union.

In response to earlier questions, the mood within Europe has changed. Last week, 26 countries were prepared to have sanctions against violent and extreme settlers. Only one country objected, namely, Hungary. Earlier there was a question about travel bans. We hope to do travel bans and asset freezes, but it would be better if we could get the EU 27 on board, so we will make one final effort at the next FAC to get full agreement. An asset freeze would be far more effective than a travel ban for some of these individuals who are doing terrible things in the West Bank in displacing Palestinian communities, schools and so forth.

As Deputy Berry noted, the King of Jordan has a great deal of experience. It is interesting that the Deputy said that because the King discussed issues like that with me when I met him when I was last in Jordan in December.

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