Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2017
443. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will repot on Ireland's efforts as one of eight EU countries to receive compensation from Israel for the destruction and loss of EU funded humanitarian infrastructure in Palestine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45737/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe illegal destruction by Israel of Palestinian homes, schools, wells, solar panels and other structures, principally in Area C of the West Bank but also in the Golan Heights, is a matter of grave concern and one that Ireland has focused attention on in recent years, both nationally and at EU and international level.
One specific aspect of this unacceptable practice which has gained increasing attention in recent years is the destruction or confiscation of structures funded by the EU and its Member States, including tents and water tanks for families whose homes have already been destroyed. This issue has been discussed on a number of occasions here in the Dáil. Ireland has argued at EU level that Israel should restore or make recompense for structures which have been destroyed or confiscated contrary to international law. EU partners hold varying views on this question, however, and there is not yet agreement at EU level to pursue this course consistently.
Accordingly, as has been reported, Ireland and a number of EU partners, and also the European Commission as one of the funders of the destroyed structures, made a joint demarche to the Israeli authorities last week asking for restoration or recompense on this basis.
I would emphasise that my primary concern in this matter is the demolition or confiscation itself, and the hardship and injustice this causes for Palestinian families. But it is right that the question of recompense for humanitarian relief funded by our taxpayers should also be pursued.
