Finian McGrath
Question:120 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make every effort to assist the Palestinian people and to actively pursue a policy of self-determination for the Palestinian people. [15629/03]
Written Answers. - Middle East Peace Process.
The Government recognises and supports the right of the Palestinian people to an independent state. This has been the settled policy of every Government since 1980. The quartet road map for a permanent two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict provides for agreement in 2005 on the establishment of a sovereign, independent, democratic and viable Palestine. I have just returned from a visit to the Middle East where I urged leaders of the Palestinian Authority, Egypt, Syria, Jordan and the Arab League to give their full and unambiguous support to the road map. I hope to have the opportunity soon to deliver the same message to representatives of the Israeli Government. I will continue to make every effort to secure the implementation of the road map and, through it, the creation of an independent Palestine, living side by side with Israel in peace and security.