Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 February 2017
54. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has had any contact with the US President, Mr. Trump, and-or the Trump Administration with regard to his support for the proposed move of the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8768/17]
View answer62. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has had discussions with his Palestinian and Israeli counterparts on US President, Mr. Trump's, plans to move the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem; his views on any such move; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8761/17]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 54 and 62 together.
While President Trump has made clear his preference for moving the United States Embassy to Jerusalem, his Administration has stated that it is studying the issue before making any announcement. Previous US Presidents have expressed similar wishes but, on entering office, have realised that there are very good reasons why every other Administration and President have maintained their Embassy for the moment in Tel Aviv. Ultimately this is a decision for the US, but I hope there will be no change in the previous policy.
I have not discussed the issue with the US Administration or with the parties on the ground.
Ireland and our EU partners remain fully committed to a two state solution which will see Jerusalem accepted by all as the capital of two states. Until then, our own Embassy will not be moving.
