Malcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Today, as the Acting Leader will be aware, Ireland has taken a very significant decision, along with Norway and Spain, to formally recognise the state of Palestine. That formal recognition will take effect from next week, from 28 May. This has been a long process. In fact, looking back on the records, the late Brian Lenihan Snr., as far back as 1980, spoke about a two-state solution and about recognising the rights of both the Israeli and Palestinian people. I commend the Government on the decision and the work of the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and officials in his Department. This is welcome for the people of Palestine and should be a further step toward the two-state solution which we believe will underpin peace in the Middle East.

It is also important to note that this should not be interpreted as in any way a recognition of Hamas or its backers in Iran. The Government and Ireland continue to condemn Hamas for the atrocity of 7 October and to call for the release of the hostages held by that death cult. This is, however, important for the ordinary people of Palestine, who have suffered so much in recent months and over the years. It is important that we reflect on the reasons Ireland is to recognise the state of Palestine. I encourage those who have the opportunity to read the piece written by our ambassador to Israel, Sonya McGuinness, in Haaretz, the Israeli newspaper, on why this recognition is happening. She talks about the fact that the achievement of peace, security and dignity for all Israelis and Palestinians is core to the Irish decision.

While our focus is on conflict in the Middle East, I also note today that the conflict in Ukraine and Putin's horrific invasion continue. The media now report that Putin has ordered nuclear weapons trials within the area and that there are military exercises to simulate the launch of tactical nuclear weapons. It is important that we continue to show solidarity with the people and the Government of Ukraine against this aggressor. I ask that we consider statements on foreign policy generally and invite the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to the House to talk about these issues.

Finally, I request that the Minister for Education come in to give us an update on the school transport scheme, particularly around the selection of proposed pilots. This is a big issue in a number of communities. The new pilot scheme is to be introduced. In my case, in north Wexford, a major protest was organised over the weekend. I would be grateful if the Acting Leader would invite the Minister here to make a statement on those issues.