Matt Carthy
Ceist:47. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the proposed timeframe to honour the Government commitment to recognise the state of Palestine. [19750/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 27 April 2023
Ceisteanna (47, 48)
Ruairí Ó Murchú
Ceist:48. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will outline the efforts being made to engage with the EU to progress the recognition of the State of Palestine among EU member states; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19775/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 48 together.
The Programme for Government states that the Government will “honour our commitment to recognise the State of Palestine as part of a lasting settlement of the conflict, or in advance of that, when we believe doing so will progress efforts to reach a two-State solution or protect the integrity of Palestinian territory”.
In the absence of progress towards a two-State solution, I would be prepared to recommend to the Government recognition by Ireland of a State of Palestine, if and when it might be helpful, and this is a matter which I discuss regularly with EU colleagues.
The timing and context of any such decision would affect whether the resulting loss of influence would be matched by a commensurate benefit for the Palestinian people and a positive impact on the peace process and a two-State solution.
Question No. 48 answered with Question No. 47.