John Paul Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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140. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on a recent incident at Trinity College Dublin wherein an ambassador was denied a speaking opportunity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11072/17]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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I deeply regret that an Ambassador accredited to Ireland, in this case the Ambassador of Israel, was unable to speak at a recent event in Trinity College.

I would hope that we can all respect the principle of free speech, including allowing a hearing to those we might disagree with. This goes in particular for Ambassadors in the performance of their representative duties. If we expect Irish Ambassadors to represent our interests and our values abroad, then we must extend the same courtesy and respect to other representatives here.

I do not know the precise details of what occurred, but whatever the intent of the protestors the outcome was that the College authorities, who are an autonomous body, and the student organisers of the event, felt that it could not proceed. It is entirely possible to make a protest, if that is desired, without obstructing or disrupting a legitimate meeting held by others. I have confidence in the ability of our students, and our people, to hear arguments, ask questions, and make up their own minds.

I appreciate fully that the Middle East Peace Process is an issue of great interest to people in Ireland and one which ignites animated discussion. I have myself voiced strong criticisms of some policies of the Government of Israel, and I have defended in this House the position that the BDS movement is a legitimate point of view, even if it is one I fundamentally disagree with. I hope that those who support that point of view, will recognise that others have legitimate viewpoints also, and permit them to be heard.

And I likewise believe that meetings or conferences organized to express or explore their point of view should also be respected and allowed to proceed.

The unfortunate outcome of events such as this is that Ireland’s reputation has suffered, those in Israel most sympathetic to our arguments have been dismayed, and those who are most resistant to our views have been strengthened.