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

We are trying. I will address that because I believe we have the potential to influence. I also reiterate the point I made here in January about what Ireland can do to be of practical help to Palestinians in ways that make fewer headlines than this Bill does, but which will change the position on the ground. I have invested a great deal of time and effort in the last year in establishing relationships with the governments of both Israel and the United States on Middle East issues, despite our very different views on these matters much of the time. I am realistic about the chances of success of the peace process, but we have to use all the possible influence we can bring to bear.

On the practical ideas to assist the situation in Gaza, I have reached a much greater degree of understanding in both Israel and Washington for the measures we are now trying to take forward with Palestinians. Ireland is committed to developing a solar energy project to alleviate the energy shortage in Gaza, on which we will spend €10 million.