Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2020
32. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which efforts continue in the Middle Eastern peace process in particular with reference to the need for permanent structures to encourage progress in Gaza; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8118/20]
View answerI have given a high priority to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and particularly the situation in the Gaza Strip, during my time as Minister. I have worked consistently to maintain an international focus on the issue and support for the two state solution and have undertaken four working visits to Israel and Palestine.
Ireland remains ready to support any peace initiative that respects the international parameters for a two-state solution and relevant UN Security Council Resolutions, and provides a basis to meet the aspirations of both peoples.
The Middle East Peace Process is regularly discussed in meetings of EU Foreign Ministers, and was addressed again in a Ministerial videoconference meeting on 15 May. In advance of that meeting, I and senior officials in my Department discussed the issue with a large number of EU Member States to encourage a clear and united position, particularly on the matter of annexation. I welcome the very clear statements that have been made on the issue by EU High Representative/Vice President Josep Borrell.
Ireland has long worked to keep attention on Gaza. In my most recent visit to Gaza in December 2019, I saw for myself the impact the blockade is having. Ireland contributes humanitarian assistance to alleviate the worst of this suffering, including through our support for UNRWA, which is a key provider of public services, health and education in Gaza. I have initiated an Irish-funded solar power project in Gaza, which will help improve water quality in the area. More recently, my Department allocated additional funding to support the medical response to COVID 19 in the Gaza Strip.
However, the roots of the problem in Gaza are political and cannot be solved by funding alone. What is needed is the lifting of the blockade, so that normal life and normal economic activity can resume. Gaza faces other challenges, including oppressive rule by Hamas, but the blockade dominates peoples’ lives in Gaza to such an extent that it is difficult to address other issues. I have raised the issue of the blockade with both Israeli and Palestinian leaders.
I will continue to make every effort to ensure that the Middle East Peace Process and the situation in Gaza remain high on the international agenda.
