President Higgins rightly warned this week against the outrageous abuse of antisemitism accusations to silence criticism of Israel and its genocidal actions in Gaza. Yet, the Government continues to endorse the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, IHRA, definition despite it being internationally discredited for its chilling effect on free speech and legitimate condemnation of Israel's actions in Gaza. Be it in the arts, academia or civic discourse, legitimate criticism and condemnation of Israel's cruel actions in Gaza are shut down on the basis of accusations of antisemitism that are contained in this definition. Will the Taoiseach reconsider the use of the definition in the programme for Government?

We have already taken that decision. It is not sustainable to say it has a chilling effect because it does not have a chilling effect. Every member state of the European Union, including Ireland, has signed up to the IHRA definition. However, this has not stopped Spain, Ireland, Slovenia and other countries from criticising the State of Israel in respect of its campaign in and bombardment of Gaza or the prevention of humanitarian aid reaching Gaza.

Why have it, then?

There is no evidence that it has actually had a chilling effect.

Why have it?

There is a clause in the explanatory note, but that is not part of the guidelines. We have been very clear that it in no way, shape or form inhibits anybody from criticising, legitimately, the policies of the Israeli Government in respect of Gaza or the West Bank. That is the factual position, but people keep making these assertions. It has not stopped us one bit from doing what we want to do in respect of our policy on the Middle East.