Jack Wall
Question:14 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the current state of events in the Middle Eastern Peace Process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18098/97]
Written Answers. - Middle Eastern Peace Process.
The Government views the current impasse in the Middle Eastern Peace Process with great concern. The decision of the Israeli Government to extend settlements in East Jerusalem last February, combined with the failure to adhere to previously agreed redeployment deadlines, has considerably eroded the confidence that is essential to maintain momentum in the process. The carrying out in July and September of two terrorist attacks with severe loss of life — which the Irish Government has unreservedly condemned — and the subsequent punitive measure carried out by the Israeli Government have also contributed to the situation.
I was, accordingly, glad to note the recent meeting between Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Arafat and I welcome the scheduled meeting this week in Washington between the Israeli Foreign Minister and a senior Palestinian negotiator. I sincerely hope that the outcome of these talks will lead to a rapid resumption of the process in accordance with the spirit and terms of the Oslo Agreement.
From my part Ireland will both bilaterally and in conjunction with our European Union partners do everything we can to assist the process.