On page 145 of the programme for Government, it is stated that the Government will continue to closely partner with international and Irish NGOs to ensure that Irish Aid funding effectively reaches those in need. In light of Prime Minister Netanyahu's comments yesterday, when he asked why Ireland helps NGOs that call for the destruction of Israel and why it does not condemn the Palestinians for incitement and glorification of terrorists, will the Taoiseach reject without reservation Prime Minister Netanyahu's accusations against Irish NGOs and Irish Aid? Furthermore, will the Taoiseach confirm the Government's support for the work of Irish Aid and NGOs in the Middle East and in Palestine? Is the Taoiseach aware of the work of NGO Monitor, an Israeli Government organisation that has made some very serious charges against Irish Aid, Trócaire and Christian Aid in a letter that came to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Defence on 16 May? I submitted the letter to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade at the time. Grave accusations are being made against Irish Aid. Prime Minister Netanyahu's comments should be rejected out of hand.

The Government stands over the work of Irish Aid overseas and that of Irish-based NGOs. We do not accept that any of them call for the destruction of the state of Israel, a state which we recognise.