Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 June 2016
195. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the recent measures or sanctions put in place to stop the illegal advancement of Israeli settlements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17390/16]
View answerI have consistently made clear, both here in the House and in discussions at EU level, Ireland’s view that the relentless expansion of illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank is a major driver of the continuing conflict. I raised the issue of settlements last week with the Prime Minister of Israel, Mr. Benjamin Netanyahu, who is also Israel’s Foreign Minister. Settlements also featured in my discussions with the Palestinian Foreign Minister, Riad Malki, and with the Secretary General of the Arab League, Mr. Nabil Al Araby. Settlement expansion acts to make more difficult and, possibly, ultimately close off the possibility of a peace agreement, and contributes significantly to the ongoing conflict between Israelis and Palestinians.
The European Union continues to work to distinguish its relations with Israel itself from any with settlements.
The principal measure in place is that goods from settlements, both produce and manufactured goods, are not eligible for the reduced tariffs on entry to the EU which apply to goods from Israel and most other countries. They are therefore charged an unusually high tariff.
Israeli veterinary certification is not accepted for meat from settlements, which cannot therefore be imported to the EU.
EU research funding granted to Israeli institutions may not be spent within settlements.
Ireland and other EU countries advise citizens against investing in settlements.
The EU has issued guidelines, in response to requests from Ireland other partners, making clear that settlement goods may not be misleadingly labelled as being produce of Israel.
We will continue to consider what other measures might be appropriate and effective.
