I propose to take Questions Nos. 432 and 433 together.
As the Deputy is aware, Ireland distinguishes between the territory of the State of Israel and the territories occupied since 1967, in line with international law and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions. This position is common across all Government Departments. Consequently, as noted in the response to Parliamentary Question 218, Ireland ensures that any bilateral agreements with Israel do not apply to territories occupied by Israel since 1967.
A whole of Government approach is applied to the policy of differentiation. My Department supports other Government Departments by providing guidance and clarification on the policy of differentiation. The Department of Foreign Affairs also ensures that there is information available for the public and companies regarding Ireland's policy on settlements via the Department's website.
Ireland’s position on the illegality of Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territory informs our engagement with the State of Israel across a range of bilateral issues, and will continue to do so. The EU and its Member States, including Ireland, are wholly opposed to Israeli settlements, which are contrary to international law, and are damaging to the prospects of peace.
Ireland will continue to use our seat on the Security Council to draw attention to the issue of settlements, as well as related issues of demolitions, evictions and settler violence. When I addressed the Council on 16 May, I raised illegal Israeli settlements and their impact on the viability of a two-State solution.
Ireland is also active on this matter at EU level. EU law and guidelines on this issue are an important part of the EU contribution to the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2334.
Ireland will maintain its vigilance to ensure full implementation of these laws and guidelines.
