Tommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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170. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the historic status quo agreement on the rights of all inhabitants of Jerusalem; and the way in which he and his European Union partners will ensure that the agreement continues to be adhered to. [14243/18]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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There are considerable and well-known sensitivities in relation to the position of the Christian communities in Israel and Palestine, and also to the Holy Places of Christians, Jews and Muslims, especially in and around Jerusalem. Concerns around these issues have led to significant tensions and even violence in recent years, which we have discussed in the Oireachtas. The issues involved can be very complex and multifaceted. There are many Christian denominations present, and their churches and traditional status and rights predate not only the foundation of Israel but even the former British Mandate, and go back to the Ottoman period or even earlier. Some European partners have historical and treaty links to various Christian denominations, and the Jordanian Government retains a role as guardians of the Muslim holy places. Jerusalem is uniquely sensitive, and Israel’s discriminatory treatment of Palestinians and their land rights under the occupation has meant that any proposed changes to the regime pertaining to religious properties are viewed with deep suspicion.I do not wish to comment on the specific issues which led to the brief closure as a protest of some of the Christian churches in Jerusalem last month. While the immediate threat was lifted, and the churches reopened, these matters are not resolved and could recur.

However, both Ireland and the European Union have consistently and on a number of occasions in recent years stressed the important principle that there should be no change in the status quowith regard to religious affairs, properties and rights in Jerusalem and the Occupied Territory, pending the final resolution of the position of the city and the holy places in a peace agreement. I have made this point myself directly to the Israeli authorities, and I repeat that principle again now. My Department has also met with religious representatives from the city and the region. We will continue to do so, and to address the Israeli authorities on these issues.