Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

We need to stand up for international law and stand against the blockade in Gaza and the expansion of illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank. We can recognise the Palestinian state and put peace negotiations on an equal footing, relying on the same parity of esteem enshrined in the Good Friday Agreement.

I look forward to introducing my legislation to end Irish involvement in the illegal settlements in the coming months and I am hopeful of seeing support across this House. I hope that Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael will support us on this legislation.

To those disgusted by the actions of the Israeli state, I say there are tangible steps Ireland can take, vouched in international human rights law if there is the political will. I am pleading with the House today to show leadership on this issue and let Ireland go forward and introduce those steps. We need to lead on this issue.