Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator very much. I agree that it is incredibly difficult to see the pictures and the absolute horror of what is taking place, and see people who are effectively trapped in Gaza coming under the most sustained very sophisticated military weaponry with absolutely nowhere to go. We all take on board the horror of what we have seen and, obviously, the impact in Israel of rockets coming in in an uncontrolled way and landing on civilian populations there. What is happening in Gaza, particularly to children, is something that is absolutely awful.

With regard to the occupied territories Bill, as I said in my opening contribution, we are guided by the advice of two Attorneys General. I fully empathise and understand where the Senator is coming from on this and the need and want for people to see something, and the concern they have about the settlements. It is very important, as the Minister has said very clearly, that we want to engage with all of the partners, particularly with our EU partners. We want to act collectively to bring about the solution, as I mentioned, that is desired by everybody, which in this immediate case is a cessation of the current violence. The best way for us to do this is to adhere to law. If we have the advice from two Attorneys General that we cannot progress, I do not think we, in setting out on a course of action, should do something we are told as a Government is not legal and, therefore, we cannot do. Obviously we want to work towards a solution. I thank the Senator very much for the opportunity she has provided by raising this today.