Frank Feighan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Government has a very clear and strong position on illegal settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories. It is completely opposed to the construction of settlements and has consistently condemned their expansion. On an emotional level, the Bill has a strong appeal and I respect the motives of those supporting it. However, the Minister has made clear that the Government does not support boycotts of Israel believing such actions would be ineffective and counter-productive in respect of those who agree with the resolution of the conflict and would potentially isolate Israelis from interactions in which diverse views on these issues are expressed. Successive Ministers for Foreign Affairs have taken this view. Taking the Bill forward would isolate Ireland in terms of dialogue. The Government believes Ireland would find it much more difficult to maintain dialogue, which currently provides opportunities to raise these very difficult issues and press for action towards peace. Some may dismiss this dialogue but, ultimately, how are we to achieve peace in the Middle East?