Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I thank Deputy Smith. I believe that when the representatives of Palestine met the foreign affairs committee and addressed the matter, they referred to Ireland and possibly Algeria as two of the most supportive countries of their actions. Perhaps that is not articulated enough in the House. This country, the Government and the Oireachtas are doing everything we possibly can, and we will continue to do everything we possibly can, to support the people of Palestine, support international law and support human rights. It was good to hear that recognised by Palestinians at the foreign affairs committee as recently as this week.

Yes, we will continue to demarche but it is well beyond time for real practical actions against the Israeli Government. This is why Ireland has called for the association agreement review. We have a Foreign Affairs Council meeting on Monday week. What I would say today in the House is that I hope and expect the European Commission on that occasion to bring forward a list of options on what actions Europe can and should take on Israel's clear breach of our association agreement. It is my view, the view of Deputy Smith and the view of most Members of the House that the agreement should be suspended as Israel is clearly in breach of the human rights clauses, which are not just there for padding. It is clearly in breach of the human rights clauses. In the absence of that decision, which would require unanimity of the European Union, the very least we should expect is that the European Commission present to the Foreign Affairs Council options as to immediate measures and sanctions that can be taken. There has to be cause and effect between the breach of an agreement and action being taken by Europe.

Yes, we will bring forward the Bill regarding the occupied Palestinian territories. I hope to bring it to the Cabinet next week; or if not next week, then certainly the following week. The Bill will go to the Oireachtas committee this month and it can begin its scrutiny process. We will continue to use every avenue available. The Taoiseach will represent our country at the UN two-state solution conference, which I think is next week.

One of the most practical things we should all be pushing for through our own political groupings in Europe is for a speedy review of the association agreement. There is no reason, in my view, in the wide earthly world why the European Commission should not be presenting options for member states to consider in terms of the breaches that have clearly taken place. That would be real, tangible action that Europe can and should take regarding the Israeli Government.

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