Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The Programme for Government states that the Government will “Honour our commitment to recognise the State of Palestine as part of a lasting settlement of the conflict, or in advance of that, when we believe doing so will progress efforts to reach a Two-State solution or protect the integrity of Palestinian territory”.

As I have stated previously, in the absence of progress towards a two-State solution, I would be prepared to recommend to the Government early recognition by Ireland of a State of Palestine. The timing and context for such consideration is critical.

During my visit to Israel, the occupied Palestinian territory, and Jordan from 1-5 November, I was clear in my engagement with both the new Israeli Government and the Palestinian Authority of the commitment of this Government to advancing a two-State solution, in line with the agreed parameters for a resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. I urged all parties – the Palestinian leadership and Israel – to work for a two-State solution, including through strengthening Palestinian institutions, the rule of law and the process of democratic renewal, which are critical elements of state building.