Joanna Tuffy (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
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Question 68: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to use the opportunity provided by the upcoming Ireland European Union Presidency to try to assist in bringing together Israel and the Palestinian territories into negotiations for a peace process that would lead to a Palestinian State and security for Israel and peace and prosperity in the region, in particular using diplomatic efforts during the Irish European Union Presidency, and positive engagement with both sides, and measures to ensure greater ties between Israel, a future Palestinian State, as well as the current Palestinian territories, and the European Union, and that Ireland having experience in the negotiation of a peace process, and as a neutral country, has a unique contribution that it can make in this policy area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25835/12]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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Ireland strongly supports the European Union's efforts to work with and encourage the parties to the Middle East peace process to reach a comprehensive settlement based on a two-state solution, in which Israel and a State of Palestine will coexist side by side in peace and co-operation with each other and their neighbours in the region. In our view, this is the only way the long-term security, prosperity and dignity of both Palestinians and Israelis can be assured. In addition to the support we have lent at EU level, we have pressed this view directly in our bilateral relations with the parties, notably during my visit to the region in January of this year. Ireland's EU Presidency in 2013 will be informed by the values and priorities of Irish foreign policy. Contributing to the search for a lasting settlement of the Middle East conflict is a major priority and, as Presidency, we will be doing everything possible to support and encourage the EU's efforts in that direction. As the Deputy will be aware, however, the Lisbon Treaty places CFSP issues such as this under the co-ordination and direction of High Representative Ashton and the External Action Service. There is no longer any direct role to be played by the rotating Presidency. We will, however, use the influence available to us to support and promote the EU's vital work in this area, working closely with our Council colleagues and with the relevant official structures.