Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent)
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481. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views regarding the revocation by Israel of Bedouins' Israeli citizenship in large numbers over recent months (details supplied) with no warning or explanation; and the steps he will take to raise this matter with the Israeli authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37752/17]

Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, Solidarity)
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484. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the recent revoking of citizenship of hundreds of Negev Bedouin by Israel; the measures he will take in view of the fact that these persons are now stateless; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37795/17]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 481 and 484 together.

I am aware of the issue in question, which, if confirmed, would indeed be a matter of serious concern. There has been some media reporting on this, but not all of the details are yet clear. I am aware that the Knesset has been paying attention to the issue, and that Israeli authorities have stated that recent decisions represent a correction of previous bureaucratic omissions, that an accelerated process is being established to correct this, and that no-one will lose their status as a result. We will see if these assurances are borne out, and I have asked the Embassy of Ireland in Tel Aviv to keep me informed.