Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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90. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the degree to which the Middle East peace talks continue to be actively supported by the EU and other interests; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41390/13]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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The commencement of direct talks between Israeli and Palestinian negotiators at the end of July, based on the extensive work and commitment of US Secretary of State Kerry, is an important achievement. Secretary Kerry briefed myself and EU colleagues on progress to date during the informal meeting of EU Foreign Ministers in Vilnius on 7 September. The process is at an early stage, and we are all aware of the very many difficulties to be overcome if agreement is to be reached. I am encouraged by Secretary Kerry’s firm commitment and belief that a speedy conclusion remains possible if the parties are willing and negotiate in good faith. The EU is fully committed to giving all possible support to this process. This may well represent the last real opportunity for realisation of a negotiated two-State solution and it is essential that all other parties concerned, including the Quartet and the Arab states, also make every effort to assist.