Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 March 2018
46. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps taken by the EU and the international community to protect the Christian presence in the occupied Palestinian territories including Jerusalem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13271/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra47. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to reports that attempts have been made to curb the rights and privileges of a number of churches in the occupied Palestinian territories; his views on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13272/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra49. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the efforts being made by the Government, the EU and the international community to preserve the status quo of the Holy Land sites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13274/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 46, 47 and 49 together.
There are considerable and well-known sensitivities in relation to the position of the Christian communities in Israel and Palestine, and also to the Holy Places of Christians, Jews and Muslims, especially in and around Jerusalem. Concerns around these issues have led to significant tensions and even violence in recent years, which we have discussed in the Oireachtas.
The issues involved can be very complex and multifaceted. There are many Christian denominations present, and their churches and traditional status and rights predate not only the foundation of Israel but even the former British Mandate, and go back to the Ottoman period or even earlier. Some European partners have historical and treaty links to various Christian denominations, and the Jordanian Government retains a role as guardians of the Muslim holy places. Jerusalem is uniquely sensitive, and Israel’s discriminatory treatment of Palestinians and their land rights under the occupation has meant that any proposed changes to the regime pertaining to religious properties are viewed with deep suspicion.
I do not wish to comment on the specific issues which led to the brief closure as a protest of some of the Christian churches in Jerusalem last month. While the immediate threat was lifted, and the churches reopened, these matters are not resolved and could recur.
However, both Ireland and the European Union have consistently and on a number of occasions in recent years stressed the important principle that there should be no change in the status quo with regard to religious affairs, properties and rights in Jerusalem and the Occupied Territory, pending the final resolution of the position of the city and the holy places in a peace agreement. I have made this point myself directly to the Israeli authorities, and I repeat that principle again now. My Department has also met with religious representatives from the city and the region. We will continue to do so, and to address the Israeli authorities on these issues.
