Written answers

Thursday, 25 January 2024

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Legislative Measures

Photo of Matt CarthyMatt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

72. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on his engagements with the Minister for Finance in relation to Illegal Israeli Settlements Divestment Bill. [3220/24]

Photo of Micheál MartinMicheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Government’s position on the Private Members Bill entitled Illegal Israeli Settlements Divestment Bill 2023, including the coordination of advice from other relevant Departments or Agencies, is a matter for the Minister for Finance.

Ireland’s overriding position on Israeli settlements is crystal clear. They are illegal under international law and are damaging to the prospects for peace. Ireland’s position on the illegality of Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory informs our engagement with the State of Israel across a range of bilateral issues, and will continue to do so.

In accordance with international law, Ireland distinguishes between the territory of the State of Israel and the territories occupied since 1967 and ensures that any bilateral agreements with Israel do not apply to the occupied territories. A whole of Government approach is applied to this policy of differentiation. The Department of Foreign Affairs also ensures that there is information available for the public and companies regarding Ireland's policy on settlements on its website.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.