Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Ó Laoghaire. I assure him there is no change in the Government’s position on engaging with the US or anywhere else. I have spoken to the Taoiseach about the conversations and understand that he reiterated the programme for Government commitment to introducing legislation in this area. I agree with the Deputy that international law does matter and that is why Ireland has joined the ICJ case and is standing very resolutely behind international law. It is also why Ireland did a lot of work with European nations on agreeing the joint position paper. It was agreed unanimously by all 27 EU member states. I refer to the EU’s position on Israel and the Middle East. A lot of work went into it.

The Deputy asked a very fair question on the timeline for introducing legislation. I want to have a meeting with Senator Black next week. I commit to coming back to the Deputy after that meeting on the next steps. I do believe a Government Bill will be necessary. That is my truthful position on this. I have been clear in that regard. I would like to get the committee up and running and get the heads of a Bill to it as quickly as possible. However, I will revert to the Deputy.

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