To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the recent efforts being made by his department to secure the release of a person Ibrahim Halawa; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.

REPLY
I wish to assure the Deputy that securing this citizen’s return home to Ireland continues to be a top priority for the Government. In this regard, the Irish Government is continuing proactively to use all the means that are available to us to ensure that the Egyptian authorities at the highest levels fully understand the importance that the Irish Government attaches to the resolution of this case.  The Government will continue to bring all of our influence to bear on this young man’s behalf through all effective channels. 

The Government is giving its full support to an appeal for this citizen’s return to Ireland under Egyptian Law/Decree 140, and is applying maximum pressure on the Egyptian authorities in support of that initiative.  Both the Taoiseach and I have been in direct contact with our Egyptian counterparts, President el-Sisi and Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, to underline the Irish Government’s serious concerns about this case in recent weeks. 
The Taoiseach has raised the case directly and personally with Egyptian President el-Sisi on a number of occasions, including in face-to-face meetings, by phone and in writing.  Following the adjournment of the trial in November, the Taoiseach again contacted the Egyptian President and urged him to return this citizen to Ireland without delay.   

I am also in regular contact with my Egyptian counterpart, Minister Sameh Shoukry, making clear the Irish Government’s concerns and objectives in this case.  I spoke with Minister Shoukry on Tuesday 1 November, again restating very clearly the Irish Government’s support for the Decree 140 application.  I also met my counterpart in New York during the UN General Assembly in September, having also raised the case during a visit to Cairo in June.    

As well as pursuing the Law/Decree 140 application, the Government also continues to explore each and every other possible avenue that might assist in securing this citizen’s return to Ireland. The Government, through our Embassy in Cairo, has been closely following the reports from Egypt about a new ‘youth amnesty scheme’.

In this context, on foot of a request from the citizen’s family, the Government has formally requested that the Egyptian Government consider him for immediate release.  
The Taoiseach specifically made this request in a letter to the Egyptian President on 17 November.  I raised this matter and request also with the Egyptian Ambassador in Dublin on the same day.

However, the details of this amnesty scheme remain very opaque and there are contradictory media reports about who might be eligible to avail of the scheme.  Our Embassy in Cairo is seeking further information and clarification about how it operates. 

In addition to engagement with the Egyptian authorities, the Government has also been engaging on an ongoing basis with other states who have had citizens in similar situations, with our European and international partners, and with the European Union.  I have engaged extensively with the EU High Representative, Ms. Federica Mogherini, who – at my request - has personally raised the case with the Egyptian Government. 

The Irish Government has been represented at every hearing in the case to date and our Ambassador was again in court to observe the proceedings at the most recent hearing, on 13 December.

Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, both in Dublin and in Cairo, remain in ongoing contact with the citizen’s family. 
His welfare while he remains in detention is also a high priority for the Government.  Diplomats from the Irish embassy in Cairo make regular consular visits to him in prison to monitor his wellbeing and to address any issues that arise in relation to his treatment or conditions of detention.  The most recent of these took place on 30 November 2016.  

To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of passports issued by his department from 1 January to date in 2016; the way in which this figure compares with 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.

REPLY

The number of passports issued in 2015 was 672,760. The number of passports issued to 13 December 2016 is 719,675.  It is projected that by the end of 2016 the Passport Service will issue almost 740,000 passports.  This would represent an increase in applications of 10% on 2015.  

Underlying demand for passports in 2016 was already running at an increase of over 9% on 2015 before the Brexit referendum.  This was in part driven by an increase in outbound travel, the Euros 2016 as well as a spike in applications in 2006 feeding through in the ten year renewal cycle.  

 To ask the Minister for Finance the discussions that he has had with his European counterparts in relation to establishing an EU reform fund to protect vulnerable countries from the negative impact of Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
  
REPLY.
Since the referendum outcome, I have met with my EU counterparts at the monthly Ecofin and Eurogroup meetings, most recently at the December meetings which took place on the 5-6 December.  In line with the agreement at EU level, there have been and will be no negotiations with the UK until Article 50 has been triggered.

I have taken the opportunity, in exchanges with EU partners, to underline Ireland's unique relationship with the UK.  As the Deputy will be aware, the key issues for Ireland, associated with the referendum outcome, including our close economic relationship with the UK, have been articulated on numerous occasions by me and other members of the Government.

The Irish Government's position on Brexit was outlined in meetings with the Head of the Commission Taskforce on Brexit in Dublin on 12 October. Close engagement with the Taskforce continues at official level.  In our engagement with the Taskforce we have made them aware that Brexit is already having an impact on the Irish economy, and of the disproportionate consequences posed by Brexit to the Irish economy overall in comparison to other Member States. 

In the context of Brexit, it is more important than ever that the EU continues to support economic growth and employment. In this regard, I would point out that the €150 million Agri Cash Flow Support Loan Fund, as announced on Budget Day, is supported by EU Budget and European Investment Fund (EIF) funding. In addition the opening of the new European Investment Bank (EIB) office in Dublin on 12 December will also help steer future EIB investment activity in Ireland, including for SMEs.


To ask the Minister for Finance if his department is considering any specific and targeted financial measures to ensure that Brexit does not lead to greater regional imbalance; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
  
REPLY.


The UK referendum on EU membership presents an important challenge for the Irish economy, both nationally and at a regional level. I have already introduced a number of actions and measures in response to this challenge. 

As the Deputy will be aware, my Department incorporated the potential impact of Brexit into the macroeconomic forecasts that underpinned Budget 2017. My Department also published an in-depth sectoral analysis of the Irish economy and highlighted those with the greatest trade exposure to the UK. As part of this work, regional issues were also highlighted, particularly with respect to the location of employment and enterprise. In light of my Department's sectoral and regional findings I announced a number of measures in the Budget, with a view to getting Ireland "Brexit ready". The detail of these sectoral measures include;

The retention of the 9 percent VAT rate to assist the hospitality sector.
A reduced Capital Gains Tax relief to help entrepreneurs and bring the relief more in line with that in operation in the UK.
An extension of the Foreign Earnings Deduction (FED) until the end of 2020, in order to assist with the diversification of trade into non-traditional export markets for Irish goods and services. 
The Special Assignee Relief Programme (SARP) is also extended until the end of 2020. The extension will provide certainty for foreign direct investment in Ireland, following on from the UK vote to leave the EU. 
The introduction of an income averaging "step-out" in the agriculture sector, to help with the volatility Brexit may bring. In addition to this a €150 million loan fund will be provided jointly by the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland and EU Exceptional Adjustment Aid to enable farmers to better manage their cash flow and reduce the cost of borrowing. 
At a macroeconomic level, Budget 2017 sought to build up Ireland's buffers to any fallout from Brexit. This involved setting a new domestic target of a debt to GDP ratio of 45 percent to be reached by the mid-2020s, or thereafter, depending on economic growth, as well as the establishment of a rainy day. 

The measures introduced in Budget 2017 are just the start of a process of getting Ireland Brexit ready. More measures will be implemented as the EU-UK negotiations develop after Article 50 is invoked. As with Budget 2017, these measures will have a regional dimension where appropriate. Indeed, as a key priority in the Programme for a Partnership Government, the Government will shortly publish a new Action Plan for Rural Ireland. The Action Plan will be a whole of Government approach to the challenges facing regional and local communities, including those presented by Brexit. 



To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the measures his department is taking to ensure that all aspects of the Good Friday Agreement are upheld in view of the Brexit referendum result; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.
* For WRITTEN answer on Thursday, 15th December, 2016.
Ref No: 40499/16

REPLY

As reflected in the Programme for a Partnership Government, the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and the subsequent agreements, including the 2014 Stormont House and the 2015 Fresh Start Agreement, is a priority for the Government.

It is important to note that the status of the Good Friday Agreement, as an international agreement, has not been altered as result of the UK decision to leave the European Union.  The UK referendum result does not in any way diminish the centrality of the Good Friday Agreement or the requirement of both the British and Irish Governments to uphold it.  

Ensuring that all aspects of the Good Friday Agreement and the overall balance of the settlement in Northern Ireland are upheld, regardless of the UK’s status within the EU, is a priority for the Government. 

The Taoiseach, my Government colleagues and I have been working to emphasise the need to ensure that all aspects of the Good Friday Agreement are fully reflected in both the exit deal and in any new EU-UK relationship. This is in the context of our engagements within the EU 27 to highlight Ireland’s priorities in relation to Brexit which also include the Economy and Trade and the Common Travel Area, both issues with a significant North/South dimension. 

On the basis of my first round of consultations with my EU counterparts, I believe our EU partners have a good understanding of the issues specific to the island of Ireland including Northern Ireland and the peace process. I was also pleased that Michel Barnier – who will lead the negotiations for the Commission - specifically referenced the Good Friday Agreement in his first public comments earlier this week.

However we take nothing for granted and, as co-guarantor of the Good Friday and succeeding Agreements, the Irish Government will continue to work to ensure that the provisions of the Agreement are protected and reflected in the upcoming negotiations. 



To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to open any new embassies or consulates as a consequence of the Brexit referendum result; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.

To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if additional staff have been deployed to Irish embassies or consulates as a consequence of the Brexit referendum result; if so, the embassies which have received additional staff and the number of additional staff; the role assigned to each new staff member, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.


  REPLY
I propose taking questions number 247 and 248 together.
Following the outcome of the referendum in the UK in June 2016 and in line with the Government’s contingency plans prepared in advance, capabilities and resources are being assigned to manage the complex process of the UK exit from the EU.  
As we approach the end of the year, I am happy to set out the resources which are in place in my Department as of today.  Within my Department, the key Divisions are the Ireland, UK and Americas (IUKA) Division and the European Union Division, both headed at Second Secretary General level.  Within the IUKA Division, there are teams focused on Northern Ireland and on wider British-Irish Relations, while the European Union Division contains a specific team focused on the EU-UK negotiations.  
In effect, most branches of the Department at its headquarters in Dublin are involved in some way as part of the response to the UK exit, for example the Legal Division, the Trade Division and also the Policy Planning Unit.  In addition, there is also an intra-Departmental senior management group on issues relating to the UK exit, chaired by the Secretary General and comprising senior officials from across all relevant business units of the Department.  
In terms of Irish offices focused on work relating to the UK exit, additional posts have been approved for our Embassies in London, Berlin, and Paris and the Permanent Representation of Ireland to the European Union in Brussels.  Several of these posts have been filled already while the selection and assignment process to fill other key positions is at an advanced stage. The Permanent Representation of Ireland to the European Union in Brussels now has a unit dedicated to managing our response to this issue and there has already been some reassignment of roles in order to fill key positions in this unit.  
I would stress that these measures comprise the first phase of our response to the UK decision to leave the EU and matters remain under review as the Government continues its detailed analysis of the implications of the UK referendum decision.  I expect that our allocation of roles and responsibilities in key missions across the network will be revised further once the UK triggers Article 50, which is expected by the end of March 2017, and that the resources dedicated to this issue by my Department will be enhanced further to meet the particular challenges of the negotiation phase.
In general terms, all of our diplomatic Missions across the EU and further afield are working on this issue.
I would also add that a number of officers of my Department are seconded to the Department of the Taoiseach and working on EU matters, while two officers are seconded to the International and EU Relations Division of the Department of Finance. 
As regards our global diplomatic footprint, a range of factors are taken into account in considering our diplomatic representation overseas: our national political, economic and trade priorities - including the response to the result of the UK’s referendum on EU membership - and maintaining our influence within the EU and with other EU Member States.  EU issues are the sole focus of the Permanent Representation in Brussels, our largest diplomatic mission, and a major part of the work of our Embassies in all twenty-seven other EU Member States.  
The configuration and scale of the State’s diplomatic and consular network is kept under ongoing review by the Government. 

To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans, to revise The Global Island - Ireland's foreign policy paper in view of the Brexit referendum result; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.


REPLY

The Global Island: Ireland’s Foreign Policy for a Changing World, published in 2015, was the Government’s first major statement of foreign policy in nearly twenty years. It set out our policy priorities and ambitions across the full range of our external engagements. It remains a cornerstone for our planning and for the delivery of Government objectives and it is not intended to update the document at this time.   
My Department’s new Statement of Strategy 2016-2019, which articulates the Government’s priorities for external engagement for the next three years, including objectives from the Programme for a Partnership Government, was agreed by Government on 13 December. It will be translated and laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas in the New Year, and will be published online thereafter. The Statement of Strategy provides us with specific goals and outputs, designed to structure our response to the challenges of the day. Foremost among those challenges is undoubtedly the United Kingdom’s vote to leave the European Union. The Statement of Strategy sets out our priority actions in this area and how the staff of the Department at home and in our network of Missions abroad will contribute to protecting Irish interests during Brexit negotiations and beyond. It also underlines the importance of the whole of Government approach and how we will work with our partners in Government to ensure the best possible outcomes for Irish citizens across the full breadth of our work.  

To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to allegations of ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya people; if so, the efforts he and his European counterparts are making to protect the Rohingya and to ensure their human rights are upheld; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.


REPLY:

The Government welcomes the democratic transition which is currently underway in Myanmar/Burma following elections in November 2015, and the positive steps that the new Government of Myanmar/Burma has taken in pursuit of peace and reconciliation, democratic reforms and economic growth. We in Ireland understand that building peace and trust takes time, and that there is a need to ensure that respect for the human rights and access to livelihoods for all communities is central to enabling long-term peace and stability.

However, as I noted in Parliamentary Question 255 on 15 December 2016, the Government is deeply concerned about recent violence in Rakhine State. The Government calls for an end to this violence, and is of the view that there is a pressing need for an impartial, independent investigation into allegations of human rights violations in this region, as well as the full restoration of access for humanitarian aid.


Officials from my Department met recently with members of the Rohingya Community in Ireland and representatives of Burma Action Ireland to discuss their views and information they had collected from families and friends in Myanmar/Burma, some of which involved allegations of serious human rights abuses.

Ireland has been active in raising our concerns at bilateral level with the authorities in Myanmar/Burma. We have also been active in raising our concerns in the context of our membership of the EU and the UN, where the situation in Rakhine State continues to receive attention since the latest outbreak of violence began in October 2016. 

There has been no change in the diplomatic relations between Ireland and Myanmar/Burma, since the reports emerged. Ireland’s Embassy in Bangkok, which is accredited to Myanmar/Burma, is monitoring the situation closely. Earlier this month Ambassador Brendan Rogers travelled to Nay Pyi Taw and Yangon, where he raised Ireland’s concerns about the situation in Rakhine State with Minister of State for Foreign Affairs U Kyaw Tin. He conveyed the Government’s recognition of the complexity of the issues involved, while urging the Government of Myanmar to ensure that allegations of human rights violations are addressed, and to restore access to the region for humanitarian aid and the media. 

On 9 December 2016, the Embassy joined a number of likeminded diplomatic missions in a statement which expressed serious concerns about access for humanitarian aid to the region. The statement welcomed the Government of Myanmar’s agreement to allow a resumption of humanitarian assistance and initial deliveries to some villages, but expressed serious concerns about delays and urged Myanmar’s authorities to overcome the obstacles that have so far prevented a full resumption. In relation to attacks against security personnel in Rakhine State and allegations of abuse in the subsequent security operations, the statement said that security forces must ensure protection of all civilians, and that the creation of an Investigation Commission offers an opportunity to investigate these incidents and allegations objectively and transparently, as well as expose acts of violence and abuse.

The third EU-Myanmar Human Rights Dialogue took place on 22 November 2016. At the meeting, the EU similarly expressed concerns about the recent security and human rights situation in northern Rakhine state, reiterating calls for an independent, credible investigation into both initial attacks and subsequent actions, as well as for the urgent re-opening of humanitarian access to the populations in need.

Ireland also supported the EU-led resolution on the situation of human rights in Myanmar/Burma at the 31st session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) in March, which conveyed the HRC’s serious concerns over human rights violations in the country, including the situation in Rakhine State and particularly with respect to religious and ethnic minorities, including the Rohingya minority. Ireland also raised this issue in a statement at the 32nd session of the HRC in June 2016 and during the review of Myanmar’s human rights record at the HRC’s Universal Periodic Review in November 2015. 

In addition to these efforts, Ireland has provided development assistance and humanitarian aid to address the needs of people in Rakhine State, including the Rohingya community. Since 2014 Ireland has provided €284,000 to Plan International for interventions in the region. 

The Irish Government is of the view that the underlying root causes of tensions in Rakhine State must be addressed with long-term solutions led by the Government of Myanmar/Burma. The need to guarantee respect for human rights and the rule of law for all people in Myanmar/Burma remains central to achieving this. Ireland has also called for more investment in early recovery and support for livelihood opportunities for both the Rohingya and Buddhist communities in Rakhine State.

​To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the recent efforts made to ensure that Israel meets obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, with particular reference to Palestinian children; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.
* For WRITTEN answer on Tuesday, 17th January, 2017.
Ref No: 41246/16

REPLY
The Convention on the Rights of the Child requires regular reporting by States parties on how the rights contained in the Convention are being implemented. The Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC) engages in dialogue with states on the basis of these reports, raising concerns and making recommendations for improved implementation. Ultimately, implementation is a matter for the State Party.
My Department and I myself have frequently raised issues of concern in relation to treatment of Palestinians living under Israeli occupation, including children, directly with the Israeli authorities or in discussions at EU level and in international fora, such as the Human Rights Council. We have discussed many of these issues in response to specific Questions here in the House. Ireland has had a particular focus on issues related to children detained by the security forces, for instance on the legal age of majority under the law, and some improvements have been made. However, much remains to be done and there are still many issues of concern.
Similar concerns about the protection of children exist in relation to many other states besides Israel, both elsewhere in the Middle East and beyond.

​
To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on whether the almost invisible border can be maintained between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland in view of the fact that the British Prime Minister has stated that the UK will leave the single market and will seek a new arrangement regarding the customs union; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.
For PRIORITY answer on Wednesday, 25th January, 2017.
Ref No: 3260/17 

Question No. 45
Parliamentary Question - Oireachtas

To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the way in which his department will advocate for the special position of Northern Ireland in the upcoming Brexit negotiations in view of the fact that the British Prime Minister has indicated that there will be no special deals or status for Northern Ireland or other devolved administrations; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.
For PRIORITY answer on Wednesday, 25th January, 2017.
Ref No: 3261/17

REPLY
I propose to answer priority questions 43 and 45 together.

The Government has noted the contents of Prime Minister May’s speech last week, and welcomed the fact that it provides greater clarity on the proposed approach of the British Government to the Brexit negotiation process. 
Prime Minister May has made clear that she wishes to secure the closest possible future economic relationship for the UK with the EU, a goal that Ireland shares.
For Ireland, the priorities for the negotiation process that lies ahead are unchanged: our economic and trading arrangements, the Peace Process including border issues, the common travel area, and the future of the European Union.
In her speech, Prime Minister May highlighted the specific and historic relationship between Britain and Ireland. In this context, she made clear that her priorities include maintaining the common travel area and avoiding a return to a hard border with Northern Ireland, both of which are welcome.

The Government notes that the British approach is now firmly that of a country which will have left the EU but which seeks to negotiate a new, close relationship with it. The analysis across Government has covered all possible models for the future UK relationship with the EU.

When the negotiations start, we, together with our EU partners, will face the UK across the negotiating table and will strive for a deal that everyone can accept but more importantly that protects Ireland’s fundamental interests.  It won’t be easy but we are prepared.  

As part of our preparations for this process, I have carried out a round of contacts with all of my EU counterparts in order to make them aware of the need for specific arrangements which protect the key gains of the peace process on this island – a process to which the EU has already made a key contribution.  
The Taoiseach has met with Chancellor Merkel, President Hollande, the President of the European Council Donald Tusk, and other EU Heads of Government to convey Ireland’s concerns. The Taoiseach, Tánaiste and I also met with the Commission’s Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier, here in Dublin, in October.
The Government is encouraged at the extent to which our concerns are understood and appreciated by our partners, and by the universal desire to assist in addressing them satisfactorily. Commissioner Barnier’s clear statement in December that Irish issues would be a negotiating priority was very positive. 
The Government is talking to the UK and working closely with the Commission and Council Secretariat to develop concrete solutions to the issues raised, and to work out how these can be achieved in the negotiations.

The Government and British Government have reaffirmed that the Good Friday Agreement is the indispensable foundation for all engagement on Northern Ireland.  This provides much needed reassurance, but we are under no illusions about the hard work needed to deliver it. 

In advance of the commencement of negotiations, the Government's engagement is being intensified in 2017. Our Embassy network across the European Union is being fully deployed in support of this process which will be assisted also by the allocation of additional resources to our Permanent Representation in Brussels and our Embassies in Berlin, Paris and London. 

The first plenary session of the All-Island Civic Dialogue was held on 2 November and this process is continuing. The next plenary session will take place on 17 February. Between these two plenary meetings, 14 sectoral events, involving various Government Ministers and examining specific policy areas in greater detail, will also have taken place. The work of the Civic Dialogue process to date has reaffirmed the priority issues identified by the Government.

I want to assure the House that the Government will continue to comprehensively and proactively prepare for all dimensions of the EU-UK negotiations in pursuit of our priority concerns. In this regard, we will continue to engage with all of our EU partners to highlight the unique circumstances of Northern Ireland, and the consequences for North-South cooperation on the island as a whole, which must be factored into any new EU relationship with the UK. 



 



Question No. 52
Parliamentary Question - Oireachtas

To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the concerns he has regarding recent developments in Turkey; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.
For ORAL answer on Wednesday, 25th January, 2017.
Ref No: 3039/17

REPLY
Recent developments in Turkey have brought the country to international attention frequently over recent months, and I remain deeply concerned about the situation there.  
Turkey has been the victim of many terrorist attacks over the past year, carried out by ISIS or by the PKK and its affiliates: over the course of 2016, more than 600 people lost their lives through acts of terrorism. Already in 2017, Turkey has suffered three utterly appalling acts of violence. I issued a statement on 1 January following the despicable shooting at the Reina nightclub in Istanbul in the early hours of New Year’s Day, in which 39 people were tragically murdered. In addition to this deplorable attack, two people were killed in a car bomb at a checkpoint in Izmir on 5 January, and four policemen were killed following an explosion in Diyarbakir, south-east Turkey on 16 January. The increasingly volatile situation in the south-east of the country is of real concern. I once again extend my condolences to the families of all those affected by these horrific acts of violence, and to all the people of Turkey. I unequivocally condemn terrorism in all its forms and repeat that Ireland, along with our European partners, stands in solidarity with Turkey in the fight against terrorism. 
While it is clear that the Turkish authorities face very difficult challenges, I continue to have serious, ongoing concerns about democracy, rule of law and human rights, and freedom of expression, in particular freedom of the media, in the country in the aftermath of the attempted coup in July 2016 and the extended state of emergency, which is still in place. The concerns of the EU, which are fully shared by Ireland, were set out in a detailed statement on 8 November last. Unfortunately, these concerns persist. 
I have repeatedly raised these concerns at meetings of the Foreign Affairs Council with fellow European Foreign Ministers. Turkey has also been discussed at European Councils where the Taoiseach represented Ireland and was the subject of intensive debate at the December General Affairs Council in the enlargement context, where Minister Murphy also spoke of Ireland’s concerns. I also raised our concerns at the Council of Europe last September.  Along with our EU partners, we will continue to monitor the situation in Turkey closely, and to engage with the Turkish authorities to encourage a renewed commitment to democracy and respect for human freedoms and to the core principles which we value so highly. 
The issue of constitutional reform has been on the agenda of President Erdogan and the AKP party for a considerable time. On 21 January, the Turkish parliament approved a comprehensive package of constitutional amendments proposed by the President. Among the proposals are provisions for an increase in the number of MPs from 550 to 600, a lowering of the minimum age to sit in Parliament to 18 from 25, holding parliamentary and presidential elections concurrently every five years, and a considerable expansion of the executive powers of the President. The next step is a referendum on the complete package which, although no date is yet confirmed, is expected to take place in April. 
Given the concerns at EU level and internationally about democracy and the rule of law in Turkey, and given the removal of parliamentary immunity from some 130 democratically elected representatives last May and the subsequent arrest of opposition MPs in November, there are serious considerations about the substance, timing and context of the constitutional proposals.
The Council of Europe, through the Venice Commission, is studying the constitutional package and is scheduled to report on their findings on 10 March. This assessment will be important in informing the position that the EU and Ireland take on the proposed reforms.


 



Question No. 55
Parliamentary Question - Oireachtas

To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps he will take to safeguard the peace process, in view of the collapse of the executive in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.
For ORAL answer on Wednesday, 25th January, 2017.
Ref No: 3036/17

REPLY

As a co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement, the Government is constantly engaged with the British Government, the Northern Ireland Executive and the political parties to support the peace process and political progress in Northern Ireland on the basis of the Agreement. In recent weeks, both the Taoiseach and I have had intensified contacts with the parties and the British Government on the political difficulties that were threatening the continuation of the Executive.

It was clear, immediately following the resignation of the deputy First Minister, that the prospect of a resolution ahead of the triggering of an Assembly election was slim. However both Governments, in their capacity as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, made full use of the narrow window available to ensure that any avenues for resolution between the parties prior to an election were fully explored. 

In the event, an Assembly election has been triggered and it is important to emphasise that this eventuality is one covered by the legislation governing the devolved institutions in Northern Ireland. When parties in an administration cannot agree, an election is the consequence and the outcome of that is now for the electorate in Northern Ireland to determine. 

The Secretary of State and I have agreed that both Governments should continue to work closely together in the weeks to come, looking ahead to the post-election period, when a new power-sharing Executive will need to be formed. We have also urged the parties to approach the election campaign in calm and respectful terms, conscious that polarizing rhetoric and frayed relationships will damage the prospects of forming an Executive after the votes have been counted. 

We must all be mindful that effective devolved Government, underpinned by a genuine spirit of partnership, is what the people of Northern Ireland voted for in 1998 and what they expect their politicians to deliver.

After the election, it will therefore fall to the parties to form a power-sharing Executive and this will require the parties to find a way forward on issues which contributed to the calling of the election. The Government is of course always ready to support and assist the parties in any way we can. Our commitment as a co-guarantor of the Agreement is a constant one – in good times and bad.

The Government will continue to work with the British Government and the political parties to support the fulfillment of the full promise of that Agreement and to advance political stability, reconciliation and economic prosperity in Northern Ireland.


 



Question No. 58
Parliamentary Question - Oireachtas

To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the recent efforts made by his department to secure the release of a person (details supplied) detained without trial in Egypt; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.
For ORAL answer on Wednesday, 25th January, 2017.
Ref No: 3037/17  Lottery No 12.
Details: Ibrahim Halawa

REPLY
This consular case continues to be a top priority for the Government and substantial resources and time are being devoted to it, by the Taoiseach, by me as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, by officials in my Department, by our Ambassador and his team in Cairo, and by the entire Irish diplomatic network.  The Government is doing everything it possibly can to ensure that the Egyptian authorities are in no doubt about our determination to see this young man returned to his home and his family.

I acknowledge and express my appreciation to the Ceann Comhairle, and to all of the members of the cross-party delegation that went to Cairo recently to meet this citizen and to hear his story at first-hand, and to press the case for his return to Ireland with the Egyptian authorities at the highest levels.  These messages have been clearly and repeatedly conveyed by the Government, and it is very useful that the Egyptian authorities are clear on the fact that there is absolute unanimity across Dáil Éireann on this matter.  
 
The Taoiseach has been in direct contact with Egyptian President el-Sisi on numerous occasions and has called on him to exercise his powers under Egyptian law to resolve this case and return this young man to Ireland.  He has done so in face-to-face meetings on two occasions and also by telephone and by letter.  The Taoiseach most recently wrote to President el-Sisi about the case in November.  For my part, I have engaged continuously on this case with my Egyptian counterpart, Foreign Minister Shoukry, and I once again raised this case with him when I met him in Paris at the Middle East Peace Conference on Sunday, January 15th.   

The trial in which our citizen is a defendant along with more than 400 others was back in court for a further hearing on 17 January.  The hearing saw witnesses called and cross-examined for the first time since the trial began.  This may be an indication that the trial has now, at last, moved into a substantive phase and that a conclusion may finally be in prospect. The Irish Government has been present at and has observed every hearing in the trial to date and our Embassy was again represented at the hearing on 17 January.   The next hearing will be on 14 February and the Embassy will once again be present on that occasion to observe the proceedings.

The Egyptian President has consistently advised us that the separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary must be respected, and that the Egyptian Government cannot intervene until after the trial has concluded.  The President has also consistently made clear to us that he is anxious to resolve this issue as soon as he can, and that he will be able to intervene in the case once the trial has ended.  I welcome the fact that he reiterated this to the Oireachtas delegation when they met with him in Cairo on January 11th.

 I and my colleagues in Government and our officials at every level will continue to do everything possible and appropriate to engage with the authorities in Cairo on this citizen’s behalf both directly and through and with EU and international partners. 


 



Question No. 74
Parliamentary Question - Oireachtas

To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the way in which he will progress the UN resolution 2334 (2016) (details supplied); if he will support the persons of occupied Palestine; and his views on the effect on the viability of the two state solution.
- Maureen O'Sullivan.
For ORAL answer on Wednesday, 25th January, 2017.
Ref No: 3032/17
in view of UN resolution 2334 (2016); stating that Israeli settlements established in Palestinian territory occupied since 1967 are a violation of international law;
Question No. 84
Parliamentary Question - Oireachtas

To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the particular efforts being made by the government to help restart the Middle East peace process; if he envisages any progress on the stalemate in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.
For ORAL answer on Wednesday, 25th January, 2017.
Ref No: 3038/17

REPLY
I propose to answer Questions 74 and 84 together.
UN Security Council Resolution 2334, adopted on 23 December, was an important and timely re-statement of key international positions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and its resolution. The Security Council stated unambiguously its support for a two state solution to the conflict, and focused particular attention on the issue of Israeli settlements in Palestinian territory. I welcomed the Council’s reiteration that settlements, and actions to alter the demographic balance in the occupied areas, are illegal and an obstacle to peace. These are not new developments: these have been the positions of Ireland, of the EU, of the UN and of the international community as a whole for many years.

The Middle East Conference in Paris on 15 January, which I attended, provided the opportunity for the broader international community in turn to confirm its full support for the two state solution. I have reported in more detail on this Conference in my earlier reply to Question 56. 

These two steps have been important and timely precisely because the Middle East Peace process has been effectively suspended for almost three years now. It is fair to say that among the Ministers I met at Paris there was very little optimism about the prospects for restarting the political process at this time. The demands of the concurrent crises in Syria and elsewhere in the Middle East are a major factor in this view. Much will depend, as it always does, on the positions and priorities of the new US Administration.
For our part, Ireland will continue to review what additional steps might be taken to encourage political progress and stands ready to support any efforts to restart a political process, as we have done in the last year to assist the French initiative. In particular, we will continue to argue, as I have done, that the international community as a whole needs to exert more pressure on the parties themselves to re-engage.


 



Question No. 87
Parliamentary Question - Oireachtas

To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will consider developing a roadmap to achieve the 0.7% of GDP ODA target; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.
For ORAL answer on Wednesday, 25th January, 2017.
Ref No: 3040/17

REPLY        
(Minister of State, Mr. Joe McHugh T.D.)
The Government is strongly committed to Ireland’s overseas aid programme, and to its place at the heart of our foreign policy. Our policy for international development, “One World, One Future”, clearly articulates our commitment to the UN target of providing 0.7% of Gross National Product (GNP) in Official Development Assistance (ODA), as economic conditions allow.  
In the current Programme for Government we have set out our ambition to make progress towards the UN target as resources permit.  Progress needs to be made in a sustainable and manageable way, which continues to strengthen Ireland's recognised role as a reliable and effective partner in providing humanitarian assistance and contributing to the fight to end global poverty and hunger.   
During the very difficult economic circumstances of recent years, the Government managed to stabilise and largely protect allocations to ODA. Since 2011 we have made annual contributions in excess of €600 million and have cumulatively allocated over of €4.5 billion in the period 2011 to 2017. This represents a  remarkable commitment of public funds towards the fight to eradicate global hunger, reduce extreme poverty and provide humanitarian assistance to some of the world’s most vulnerable people. 
Over the past two year we have again commenced increasing funding allocations for ODA in a sustained and measured way, providing an additional of €40 million in 2016 and a further €10 million for 2017. The total 2017 allocation for ODA will be €651 million.   
Based on current Department of Finance forecasts for GNP we anticipate the ODA/GNP percentage outturn for 2016 to be in region of 0.3% with a similar level projected for 2017.  The reduction in the percentage has been affected by the step change in the measurement of Ireland’s GNP. 
We remain committed to making incremental, sustainable progress towards achieving the 0.7% UN target by 2030, over the period of the Sustainable Development Goals. 

QUESTION NO:  94

DÁIL QUESTION addressed to the Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Frances Fitzgerald)
by Deputy Darragh O'Brien
for WRITTEN on Wednesday, 25th January, 2017.  

 
 *  To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the commitments that the government has made in terms of accepting refugees and unaccompanied minors to Ireland, in tabular form; the number of persons to date that have been accepted here under the various resettlement and relocation programmes; the number of unaccompanied minors that have arrived here; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

                                                             - Darragh O'Brien

  
REPLY.
Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality (David Stanton)

As the Deputy will be aware, the Irish Refugee Protection Programme (IRPP) was established by Government Decision on 10 September 2015 as a direct response to the humanitarian crisis that developed in Southern Europe as a consequence of mass migration from areas of conflict in the Middle East and Africa.  Under this programme, the Government has pledged to accept a total of 4,000 persons into the State by the end of 2017, 2,622 through the EU  relocation mechanism established by two EU Council Decisions in 2015 to assist Italy and Greece, and 1,040 (519 by the end of 2016 and the remainder in 2017) under the UNHCR-led refugee resettlement programme currently focussed on resettling refugees from Lebanon. 

In a further gesture of humanitarian assistance towards the most vulnerable caught up in the migration crisis and following a debate in the Dáil, the Government  also committed to taking up to 200 unaccompanied minors from France who were previously resident in the migrant camp at Calais.  Further information in relation to this cohort is being included in the response to PQ no.95 for answer today.  These initiatives therefore leave just a small residual balance to be allocated from the Government decision to take 4,000 persons.

Resettlement strand of the programme
Taking account of the situation in the Middle East, and the plight of the refugees, the Tánaiste announced that Ireland would accept 520 persons for resettlement over an 18-month period to the end of 2017.  This was almost double the figure proposed for Ireland by the European Commission and was delivered a year ahead of the Commission deadline.  
        
In addition, the Government recently announced that it is extending the resettlement programme to take in a further 520 refugees from Lebanon in  2017, most of whom are of Syrian origin.  260 refugees have already been selected during a selection mission to Lebanon in October 2016 and are expected to arrive in Spring 2017.  Most of these refugees are also Syrian.  A further selection mission to Lebanon will be arranged in the coming months to select the remaining refugees due to come to Ireland in 2017 under the resettlement programme.   

Relocation strand of the programme
Ireland has to-date taken in 241 people from Greece.  In November, IRPP officials travelled to Athens and interviewed a group of 84 people who once cleared  for travel, are expected to arrive in February.  An IRPP mission to interview 80 people took place in Athens from 12 – 16 December.  A further mission has already taken place in January which interviewed 61 people. The intention thereafter is to sustain the pace of intakes throughout 2017 at the levels required to allow Ireland to meets its commitments to Greece within the time frame envisaged by the  Programme. 

Table of Total Numbers under Government Decision
Relocation Strand     Numbers
Council Decision 2015/1523    600
Council Decision 2015/1601     2,022
Total Relocation    2,622
    
Resettlement Strand    
Government Decision 09/06/15    520
Government Decision 06/07/16    260
Government Decision 29/11/16    260
Total Resettlement    1,040
    
Total Unaccompanied Minors Calais    200 (up to)
    
Mechanism as yet undecided    138
    
Grand Total    4000

Unaccompanied minors
In announcing the IRPP, the Government recognised the importance of prioritising family groups and addressing the position of unaccompanied children.  A significant number of those who have arrived to date are young children with one or two parents.  Ireland has taken in four unaccompanied minors with another to follow very shortly; we have indicated our willingness to take further unaccompanied minors from Greece under relocation and work continues in this regard.  Such minors are placed in the care of Tusla.  Unaccompanied minors that Ireland takes from Greece are additional to the commitments made by Ireland in respect those previously resident in the migrant camp in Calais.

The profile of persons taken in to-date under the relocation and resettlement strands of the IRPP is outlined below.

Profile for Relocation Asylum Seekers
Total People     Adults     Minors     Age 0-4     Age 5-12    Age 13-17
241    136    105    41    45    19


Profile for Resettlement Refugees
Total People     Adults     Minors     Age 0-4     Age 5-12    Age 13-17
519    240    279    85    147    47

​ 
 *  To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the progress made to date in accepting up to 200 unaccompanied minors from the dismantled Calais camp; if these children are part of or in addition to the 4,000 refugees Ireland has committed to under the various resettlement and relocation programmes; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

                                                             - Darragh O'Brien

  
REPLY.
The Government has been proactively engaged with the French authorities in identifying young people previously living in the camp in Calais who may wish to come to Ireland. Following the approval by Government of the appropriate legal mechanism and the identification of considerable resources needed, officials from my Department, the Department of Children and Youth Affairs and Tusla, the Child and Family Agency  positively engaged with the French authorities in Paris in early January with a view to identifying these unaccompanied minors. There has also been ongoing contact with the NGO sector. 

Subsequent to the officials meeting, the first mission to meet unaccompanied minors took place last week and included representatives of Tusla, which has statutory responsibility for the care and accommodation of unaccompanied minors in the State. The Tusla officials were accompanied by a member of staff from the Irish Refugee Protection Programme Office of my Department and members of An Garda Síochána who carried out security assessments. Four unaccompanied minors were assessed during this initial mission and will be relocated in the near future subject to the completion of the security assessment process. The next mission to another centre in France will take place very shortly to interview another six young people wishing to come here. Irish officials have drawn up detailed questionnaires to rapidly progress the identification of these young people. I also understand that NGO's have this week identified a total of six young people to my Department.  Separately, two young people identified by the French Red Cross as having a relative here have already been processed and have arrived safely in Ireland.  Although decisions regarding numbers and dates for future missions are matters for Tusla to determine in cooperation with the French authorities, it is anticipated that approximately 60 young people could be identified by the authorities and processed over the course of the coming months as willing to come to Ireland and we have committed to accept all of these on a phased basis, as soon as resources come on stream and subject to the aforementioned security process. The best interests of the child is central to this partnership process with the French authorities.  

The intention is to rapidly process these young people by using some of the yet unallocated numbers included in the original decision to welcome 4000 refugees here and does not impact on the commitments entered into in relation to the EU Relocation or Resettlement Programmes.  

To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if the Dublin northern metropolitan region can expect an increase in its detective complement in 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

                                                             - Darragh O'Brien

  
REPLY.
As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources. 

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that in regard to the deployment of Garda personnel, a distribution model is used which takes into account all relevant factors including population, crime trends and the policing needs of each individual Garda Division. It is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division. 

The Dublin Region is served by members assigned to the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) which consists of 6 Garda Division including the DMR North and North Central Divisions. I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that the number of Gardaí assigned to the DMR on the 31 October 2016, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 3,473 of which 214 were Detectives. The number of Gardaí assigned to the DMR North and North Central Divisions on the 31 October 2016, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 1,274 of which 67 were Detectives.  When appropriate, the work of the Garda Divisions within the DMR is supported by a number of Garda national units such as the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (NBCI), the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (formerly the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation) and the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau. 

At the request of the Garda Commissioner earlier this year, the Government moved decisively to strengthen Garda resources to deal with gang-related crime in the Dublin area.  In particular funding was approved for the establishment of a dedicated Armed Support Unit for the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) in order to enhance armed support capability in Dublin and to free up the resources of the ERU. Following a selection and training process, the Armed Support Unit for the DMR is now fully operational and providing armed cover on a 24 hour basis.  

I am further informed that Operation Hybrid has been established to coordinate the response to violent crime in Dublin and address public concerns about community safety.   As of 20 October 2016, there have been 38 arrests and 5 charges brought in connection with the recent shootings. In addition, 23 firearms have been seized and over 9,000 lines of enquiry conducted. In excess of 14,350 high visibility checkpoints have been implemented with significant support from Armed Support Units and a significant amount of CCTV footage, mobile phone traffic, and forensic evidence is also being examined.  I understand Operation Hybrid is reviewed on a weekly basis to maintain optimal impact.

Underpinning all of these measures is the Government’s commitment to increasing the overall Garda workforce to 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. This process will involve the recruitment of some 3,200 new Garda members on a phased basis over the next four years, to ensure that the service is renewed and has the capacity to provide visible, responsive and effective policing to every community throughout the country.    

This is an ambitious target and will require a continuous pipeline of suitable candidates. I am pleased to say that the recruitment campaign launched by the 
Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Commissioner last September, the second campaign this year, again received a strong response. 
I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that since the reopening of the Garda College, 679 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide, including 319 to DMR Divisions. I have no doubt that these new resources now coming on stream will benefit the Detective strength across all Garda regions. 

This investment in personnel is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government's Capital Plan 2016 - 2021.  In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services countrywide including in the DMR.  


To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the measures that will be taken to address the low burglary detection rate in the Dublin northern metropolitan region; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

                                                             - Darragh O'Brien
REPLY.
 I understand that the Deputy is referring to detection rates highlighted in the 'Garda Recorded Crime Statistics 2010-2014', which was published by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) last week. The first thing that needs to be said is that this publication provides an analysis of data up to the end of 2014 only, and it would be entirely incorrect to suggest that it represents an assessment of the current situation in relation to burglary or any other crime category.

In relation to the general issue of detection rates, it must be recognised that detection rates do vary according to the nature of the crime and that this is in line with international experience. Detection rates are often found to be lower for certain offences, such as burglaries and some other property crimes, as these generally only come to light after the event and the offender has left the scene. These offences are inherently more difficult to investigate than others such as possession of drugs, for example, where the offender is observed while committing the offence. While our statistical system is not directly comparable with that of other countries, in the UK, for example, similar difficulties exist in detecting burglaries. This is illustrated by Home Office figures which show that over 80% of burglary investigations in 2014/2015 were concluded without a suspect being identified.  

I do of course share the Deputy’s concern that we do everything we can to protect communities from burglary and other crimes against householders. Long before the publication of the recent CSO analysis, I initiated a broad ranging review of our response to burglary crime. 

Operation Thor launched in November 2015 has led to a sharp decline in the rate of burglary crime. Indeed, the most current CSO crime figures, which are for the second quarter of 2016, indicate that in the first six months of this year there were 36% less burglaries than in the first six months of 2015, underlining the impact of Operation Thor.  It is also worth noting that the CSO Quarter 2 figures for the D.M.R. Northern Garda Division show a reduction in Burglary of 36%. We have also seen the enactment of specific legislation targeting prolific burglars in the Criminal Justice (Burglary of Dwellings) Act 2015. These provisions are now available to Gardaí in relation to prosecutions arising from the concentrated drive against crime which is being implemented under Operation Thor, which is supported by very significant investments in Garda resources. The reduction in burglaries as a result of Operation Thor will not of course be indicated in the detection rate statistics  when they become available for the relevant period but the prevention of crime is always preferable to crimes having been committed which must then be detected.

If I might illustrate the scale of Garda activity against burglary and property crime – under Operation Thor we have seen 30,000 crime prevention patrols and in the order of 38,500 targeted checkpoints nationwide. There have also been in the region of 2,500 arrests and 2,900 charges covering a range of offences which, in addition to burglary, have included handling stolen property, possession of firearms and drugs offences.

The Criminal Justice (Forensic Evidence and DNA Database System) Act was commenced a year ago and introduced the DNA database, which provides Gardaí with investigative links (’hits’) between people and unsolved crimes; in particular burglaries. It is anticipated that this should significantly assist in improving detection rates for burglary over the coming years. So far, approximately 532 investigative links between people and unsolved crimes have already been uncovered, including 359 burglary cases. In addition, the database links crime scene samples to each other and so far, 95 crime scene samples have been linked to other crime scene samples, demonstrating a link between two crimes or clusters of crimes committed by the same person in a particular area or locality.

I understand that the CSO will publish the next Quarterly Recorded Crime Statistics release before the end of this month. I can assure the Deputy that I will be monitoring crime trends very carefully and will remain in close contact with the Garda Commissioner to ensure that we continue to provide An Garda Síochána with the necessary legislative and financial supports needed to tackle crime and protect people in their own homes.

And finally, underpinning the Government’s approach is our commitment to increase Garda numbers to 15,000 and we are pressing ahead with our plans for accelerated Garda recruitment so that we can provide more visible front line policing and bring greater reassurance to people in their local communities. 

​Question No. 356
Parliamentary Question - Oireachtas

To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the UK government's plans to preserve the Good Friday Agreement in a future UK treaty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. 
- Darragh O'Brien.
* For WRITTEN answer on Tuesday, 31st January, 2017.
Ref No: 4049/17
REPLY

The Government’s priority is to ensure that the Good Friday Agreement and the overall balance of the settlement is not in any way disturbed by the UK’s exit from the European Union.

The legal and political obligations of both the Irish and British Governments under the Good Friday Agreement remain unchanged, regardless of the status of the UK within the EU.

The Taoiseach and Prime Minister May have confirmed that the Agreement remains the basis for the two Governments’ approach to Northern Ireland.

I have met with all of my EU Foreign Minister counterparts. I believe there is a good understanding of the unique situation of Northern Ireland and of the importance and necessity of the European Union continuing its historic supporting role for the peace process there. 

As a co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement, the Government is determined that all aspects of the Agreement – including its provisions relating to the constitutional status of Northern Ireland - are fully protected and reflected in the new relationship between the EU and the UK.

​To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on Israel's plans to build 2,500 more homes in the occupied West Bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Darragh O'Brien.
* For WRITTEN answer on Tuesday, 31st January, 2017.
Ref No: 4290/17 Proof: 372
REPLY
I am replying to Questions 353 and 357 together.
On 25 January I issued a public statement concerning these developments. The full text as issued by my office was as follows:

Ireland condemns the recent announcements by Israeli authorities of further settlement construction. 

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan TD, has condemned recent announcements by Israeli authorities of further settlement construction in the occupied Palestinian Territories.  

Minister Flanagan said: 
“Ireland’s views on Israeli settlements couldn’t be clearer.  Indeed, the views of the international community on settlements couldn’t be clearer – they are comprehensively set out in UN Security Council Resolution 2334 and in the declaration of the Paris Conference which I participated earlier this month.  These settlements are illegal, they actively undermine the prospects for a sustainable negotiated two-state solution, and the relentless expansion of settlements inherently involves injustice and provocation for Palestinians.  
“These most recent announcements, proposing more than 3,000 units, are deeply disappointing.  Such actions serve only to undermine Israel’s reputation and the credibility of its government’s declarations of support for a negotiated, peaceful solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
“In particular, the intention to proceed with new settlements in East Jerusalem only serves to call further into question the commitment of the Israeli government to engage in meaningful negotiations aimed at achieving a two-State solution.
“Ireland remains steadfast in its support for a comprehensive two state solution which protects the future of both the Palestinian and Israeli peoples.
“I call for an end to all settlement construction, and the reversal of these announcements.”