Gary Gannon (Dublin Central, Social Democrats)
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61. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his Department recognises Israel's oppression of Palestine as apartheid (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28866/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I am deeply saddened by the killing of two-year-old Mohammed Tamimi and extend my condolences to the family.

The death of Mohammed marked a further tragic milestone in a year that has witnessed a shocking increase in the number of civilian casualties. As the occupying power, Israel is required to protect civilians in the occupied Palestinian territory.

Against the backdrop of this deteriorating security situation, Ireland’s focus is on seeking to find a way to change the reality on the ground and to encourage a peace process that can deliver a two-State solution, which is the Government's priority.

I have been consistently forthright in expressing concern regarding the unequal treatment of Palestinians. Irish officials actively engage with interlocutors in relation to such issues. For example, this week my officials met with the UN Commission of Inquiry on the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and in Israel.

My officials and I will continue to raise our concerns regarding discriminatory practices towards the Palestinian people on a regular basis directly with the Israeli authorities, including during visits to the region, as well as at EU and UN level.