Colm Burke (Fine Gael)

I am aware of that but I would like to put it into perspective. Israel is the fourth largest exporter of arms in the world and yet in a four year period, it imported $1.4 billion worth of arms and munitions.

While the protest helps to highlight the issue, the real pressure should come from Europe and the US because they can force a change in policy. There is a need for a change in policy in this area.

It is important we debate the matter and that we convey our concerns about the way this issue is being dealt with. I was in Gaza two years ago but nothing has changed since then or in the past 25 to 30 years. The question is whether a similar debate will be held again in 30 years' time, not necessarily in this House but in Dáil Éireann. It is time for pressure from Europe and the US. That is why a debate would be helpful.