Recognition of Palestine
Deputy Gerry Adams pressed the Taoiseach to recognise the state of Palestine, arguing the Oireachtas had already voted for it and settlement expansion continued. The Taoiseach said the situation was sensitive and evolving, reaffirmed support for a two-state solution, and said consideration of the vote was continuing.
The programme for Government states that the Government will honour our commitment to recognise the state of Palestine. I have raised this matter with the Taoiseach many times but he refuses to act on that commitment. The Dáil and Seanad have voted for this, but the Government refuses to act on the vote of the Oireachtas. In the first four weeks of this year, Israeli authorities have continued the theft of Palestinian land, the demolition of Palestinian homes and, in direct contravention of international law, have approved the construction of 566 new settler homes in east Jerusalem. We also hear from the Trump Administration that it expects to transfer the United States embassy to Jerusalem. This will seriously undermine the consensus that was expressed at the recent Paris conference on the Middle East. There is now widespread talk among Palestinian people about the need for a new intifada.
Will the Taoiseach urgently inform the new US Administration that the State opposes any move of the US embassy to Jerusalem? Will the Taoiseach agree to recognise the state of Palestine formally, as he is committed and bound to do following the Oireachtas vote on the matter?
Comment on this
The Oireachtas vote expressed itself in the House. The situation regarding Palestine and Israel is in transition. The comments made by the new US Administration have been very clear. I have always opposed the building of accommodation on what was deemed Palestinian lands. The question here is about accountability. Clearly, we, and the vast majority of people, have supported the two-state solution. This goes back to the late 1940s, as Deputy Adams is well aware. President Trump has said he would expect that his newly appointed ambassador here would have a major influence in being able to deal with the question between Israel and Palestine. What the outcome of that means is for discussion and negotiation.
Comment on this
The Deputy is aware of former Secretary of State John Kerry's intense involvement in this matter but to no avail. The situation is exceptionally sensitive and the position has changed.
Comment on this
Will the Taoiseach accept and recognise the state of Palestine?