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

Ireland and Spain have a very clear direction of travel on this matter. I have said consistently over the past number of months and, indeed, since the Government was formed that, in line with the programme for Government, co-ordination with others and getting as many member states as possible on board is important for Palestinians' right to self-determination and their right to their own state because it has impact internationally. On Friday, there is an important vote at the United Nations General Assembly, which we will support, on a proposal seeking admission of Palestine to the United Nations and to the enjoyment of the rights that apply there. This follows the Security Council's failure and the decision by the US to veto action. Unfortunately, there are legislative issues in the US in terms of tied aid and the provision of humanitarian supports. We are very clearly supporting this initiative. We believe there could be a very significant vote at the UN General Assembly in favour of admission. That is on Friday. Following that, working with Spain and potentially others, I will bring proposals to the Government in terms of the recognition of a Palestinian state.

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