Ms Grace O'Sullivan:

I thank Senator Ruane, who has made an incredible contribution to Irish politics over the number of years she has been a Member of the Seanad.She is a role model for so many. I want to put that on the record.

On the occupied territories, it is very interesting to be a member of the Green group in the European Parliament, to be on the delegation on Palestine and to see how difficult it is within the EU. I am being very honest and frank about this. I felt much more progressive here in this Chamber talking about Palestine and the occupied territories, the supply chain and the opportunity for sanctions and so on than I do in the European Parliament. I find it much more difficult to try to mobilise support around the position of the Senator and her colleague Senator Black and that of the Civil Engagement Group, which adopted a strong and vocal position here and the introduction of highly progressive legislation. It is quite remarkable to see how Ireland is very much championing the Palestinian cause. It is difficult for the Government to balance it sometimes. It is of huge public interest here in Ireland partly because of our own culture and how we identify with the Palestinian people and their cause. I have to be honest and say that it is difficult in the European Union. The drive that comes from here and from this Chamber is really important. It gives us opportunities. I was able to bring Senator Black over to the European Parliament to meet some key people there. We area a nation that is well thought of diplomatically. I would ask colleagues to forge on and really push the issue here at home because that gives us strength in the European Parliament to push from there.