Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein)
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457. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the crackdown on NGOs in Israel; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Israeli MPs have considered initiatives to shut down NGOs that they claim are trying to have Israeli soldiers tried under international law; his further views on whether this will particularly affect one of the most high profile anti-occupation civil society organisations (details supplied); his views on these moves; his further views on the safety and security of activists in Israeli civil society organisations that oppose Israel's occupation of Palestine in view of the current crackdown on NGOs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46320/17]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The Dáil has discussed on a number of occasions the developing pressure being placed on NGOs in Israel and Palestine who are active on human rights and justice issues relating to the occupation of Palestinian territory. While noting that Israel still retains a more active and freer civil society than most countries in its immediate neighbourhood, I have expressed my deep concern at the continual efforts through legislation or other means of restricting or hampering the work of these NGOs and their workers. I do not wish to react to every piece of suggested legislation, many of which make it no further in the legislative process. I am also concerned about the hostile language increasingly used in relation to some of these NGOs and their staff, inviting harassment or worse against their workers and even their families. This type of language, occasionally used even by Ministers, is dangerous and unacceptable. I am aware of the particular pressure on the NGO referenced by the Deputy. This NGO performs valuable and courageous work, consistent with the very best traditions and interests of Israel, and my Department has engaged with them often and fruitfully. I met recently, in August, with a leading member of this group who was visiting Ireland, to hear of the work they are doing, the difficulties they are experiencing, and to demonstrate my support.