Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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75. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which, at EU and UN level, sufficient influence continues to be maintained to ensure that all parties to the Middle East peace process remain committed to the principle of addressing the issues needed to bring about an historic and peaceful solution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8591/14]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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The US-sponsored peace talks began in late July 2013 with the objective of achieving a comprehensive agreement between Israel and Palestine. Talks have proceeded more or less continuously since then. Ireland and the EU have strongly supported this process, which possibly represents the last chance to achieve a negotiated two-state solution. EU High Representative Ashton has maintained close contact with US Secretary of State Kerry throughout the process and has regularly briefed EU Foreign Ministers on developments, most recently at the Foreign Affairs Council on 20th January.

The United States is understood to be working on framework proposals, to be put to both parties, to focus their engagement on the key issues to be resolved.

The Foreign Affairs Council adopted Conclusions in December 2013 which expressed the EU’s support for the ongoing efforts of the parties, and warned against actions that could undermine the negotiations. The Council recalled its previous conclusions which laid down its vision for a two-state solution resulting in an agreement on all final status issues, ending all claims, and fulfilling the legitimate aspirations of both parties. The EU also reiterated its readiness to contribute substantially to post-conflict arrangements for ensuring the sustainability of a peace agreement, if reached. A major package of European political, economic and security support to both parties can be expected in the context of a final status agreement. This includes the offer to Israel and a future state of Palestine of a special privileged partnership with the EU, including increased access to EU markets, facilitation of trade and investment, and enhanced political dialogue and security co-operation.

The EU is also convinced of the positive role that countries in the region can also play in advancing the peace process, and remains committed to the on-going dialogue with the Arab States and the strategic importance of the Arab Peace Initiative in this context.