TDs set to call for recognition of Palestine state

The Dáil looks set to call for recognition of the state of Palestine after the Government said it would not oppose the move.

Such a vote by TDs would be symbolic, and not binding on the Government, but the initiative has drawn cross-party support.

Sweden is the biggest EU country to so far recognise Palestine as a state, while the British and French parliaments have both voted recently for their governments to follow suit.

Sinn Féin welcomed the Government’s stance not to oppose its private members’ motion calling for support for Palestine and acceptance of its statehood.

The Sinn Féin motion on Palestine came after Israel refused to allow Gerry Adams to enter the Gaza Strip during a three day visit to the Middle East.

Foreign Affairs junior minister Sean Sherlock said that Ireland was giving €10m a year to help build up Palestinian public institutions.

Fellow Labour TD Dominic Hannigan said: “Recognising the independent state of Palestine would be a symbolically important expression of Ireland’s support for the people of Palestine’s right to self determination.”

Fianna Fáil senator Averil Power, who led moves for the upper house to call for the recognition of Palestine, said: “It is important in the aftermath of Israel’s latest assault on Gaza that the international community sends out a clear message of support for the Palestinian people and their right to their own state.

“Our Government must also take further steps to help put pressure on Israel to end its illegal occupation.

“For example, we should use our influence at EU level to make the continuance of the EU-Israel trade agreement dependent on Israel abiding by international law and withdrawing from Palestine.”