Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Acting Chairman for that.

Ireland has been a successful advocate for EU efforts on the Middle East, including on settlements. Ireland played a central role in achieving many of the EU measures on settlements, such as product labelling guidelines. There are also differentiated EU tariffs at EU level for goods coming from settlements and Israel. We were among the first advocates of a policy emphasis on differentiation between Israel and the settlements, which has come to be embodied in many EU measures. We continue to advocate for such actions.

Like many here today, I am frustrated that the growth of settlements has not stopped but I am proud that Ireland has been a consistent and influential advocate in support of Palestinians. My fear is that if Ireland is to adopt the course of action in this Bill, we would be choosing instead to be a principled voice in the wilderness satisfied in the righteousness of our course, but largely unable to influence the real action. This is my biggest concern about the legislation.

I ask the House to listen to me on this point. I have spent hours trying to build relationships with people who will be involved in decision making that can bring about peace - Palestinians, Americans, Israelis and others in Jordan, Egypt, Cyprus and many other neighbouring countries. I fear the consequence of Ireland taking a significantly different position from everybody else in the European Union and the world would be to suddenly undermine my capacity to be seen as someone to whom both sides can at least talk, even though I clearly advocate strongly for Palestinians all the time. This is a real fear. I do not say this for convenience because this is awkward legislation or I am being heavily lobbied. I say it because, as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, I care about this issue. I have spent a significant amount of time on it and I want Ireland to be at the centre of these discussions, where it matters and we can help a vulnerable and exposed community of Palestinians who are part of a deep injustice that has lasted for decades.

I suspect this Bill will pass today. By passing it, Senators may believe we are striking out in solidarity with Palestinians, which we are and that is how it will be seen, but one week later, where will an Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade be with regard to the relationships we have worked so hard to build up over the past 12 months? I have spent a substantial amount of taxpayers' money funding my travel in these endeavours. We are trying to help Palestinians and to ensure that teenagers in Gaza are no longer shot dead.