Paschal Donohoe

For the first time in the State, what this Bill aims to do is to introduce a national sanctions regime. Let us step back and acknowledge the huge suffering that is the cause of this debate but let us look also at how Irish diplomacy has worked. How it has worked is that the sanctions that we have implemented have been ones that have been negotiated, agreed and introduced at EU and UN level.

They are an important tool to promote the objective of the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy. Sanctions are stronger and more effective when done collectively. Rather than be seen to do something, it is far better-----

-----to ensure the outcome is effective. Furthermore, the clear advice that has been provided to me is that it is not about hiding behind the law, it is as a government and a Member of Parliament, being subject to the law.

The article is very clear that the Bill conflicts with Article 215 of the Treaty of the European Union, which is intended to preclude individual member states from issuing their own restrictive measures, which could undermine the integrity of how the EU conducts its external affairs policies. The reason for that, again, is that the EU has shown its ability to make progress when it acts in a collec…

-----and which did not happen in the earlier statements from Sinn Féin-----

-----is intended to prevent the sale of Israeli bonds throughout the European Union. However, we cannot promote or even propose national legislation that prohibits the sale of something at EU level. Any actions taken by Ireland must recognise the distinction between policy areas at a national level and those at an EU level.

Even if this Bill were to be enacted, Israeli bonds-----

-----would still be available to retail investors across the EU and further afield. Let me repeat that: even if this Bill were to be enacted, Israeli bonds would still be available to retail investors across the EU and further afield.

The Government does not support enacting legislation that is ineffective.

Finally, the advice I have received on the Private Members' motion is that for the reasons I have outlined, it is in conflict with the treaties of the European Union and our obligations as a member state.

It does not materially impact-----

-----on the ability of Israel to raise money by selling bonds.

If our goal is to uphold the rule of international law then we must be sure not to violate it.

Let me conclude on this point.

What we have done as a Government-----

-----is made very clear our condemnation of what is happening to the people of-----

We have been at the forefront of the diplomatic activity within the EU to do this. We have also been to the fore in going to the International Criminal Court, our support for UNRWA-----

-----and by making the case for change with regard to the EU-Israel trade agreement.

The images that I know are a reality for so many-----

-----are being used shamefully here to make political points.

What they cannot do is afford a distraction from the detail of a Bill that is not able to deliver on the claims that have been made about it. They are asking the Dáil to support a measure that we as a Government believe and have been advised is ineffective.

Tomorrow will mark the anniversary of Ireland's recognition of the State of Palestine.

It will mark a further year in which the Government has taken the steps it can to aid the people of Gaza.

What I will not do is make-----

-----a commitment here this evening on legislation, which I believe will not work, is not consistent with our law and will not help the people of Gaza.