Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 29 May 2003

Vol. 567 No. 7

Written Answers. - Human Rights Abuses.

Tony Gregory

Question:

33 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the action he has taken regarding human rights abuses in the occupied Palestinian territories; the plans he has to propose EU action on the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14840/03]

The situation in the Middle East, including the Occupied Palestinian Territories, is discussed by Foreign Ministers of the European Union on a regular basis. These discussions encompass human rights issues in the Territories. The Union has made representations at various times to both the Israeli Government and the Palestinian Authority on the subject of human rights abuses in the territories. At the General Affairs and External Relations Council on 19 May the Council conclusions stated: "The Council recognised Israel's legitimate security concerns. It is, however, deeply preoccupied by the number of Palestinian civilian deaths and called on Israel to act within the constraints of international law, and not to impede access to humanitarian groups."

Finian McGrath

Question:

34 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to a recent statement by the United Nations special envoy for the Middle East peace process, warning that UN humanitarian operations in the Gaza Strip may have to be suspended due to restrictions imposed by the Israeli authorities; if he has made representations to the Israeli authorities on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14838/03]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

57 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to a recent statement by the United Nations special envoy for the Middle East peace process warning that UN humanitarian operations in the Gaza Strip may have to be suspended due to restrictions imposed by the Israeli authorities; if he has made representations to the Israeli authorities on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14822/03]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 34 and 57 together.

I am aware of the statement to which the Deputy refers. The restrictions imposed by the Israeli authorities have recently been brought up with Israeli representatives by the Presidency of the European Union in both Athens and Jerusalem and by the European Commission in Brussels. I understand that the measures will be reviewed by the Israeli authorities in the next few days and I am hopeful that they will be lifted. Israel has legitimate security interests, of which we are conscious. However, it also has obligations to the population of the Occupied Palestinian Territories under the Fourth Geneva Convention. Any security measures necessary must be proportionate and take due account of the needs of the people of the territories and Israel's obligations under international humanitarian law.

Top
Share