We have all had discussions in this Chamber about the genocidal action of Israel with the backing of the United States and the absolute madness of where we have found ourselves. It is particularly painful for those in Lebanon and Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. When we do have the Presidency, it is a means of moving on as much as we can in respect of the EU-Israel Association Agreement and, if we can, getting movement. I have heard from the Minister of State, the Minister, Deputy McEntee, and the Taoiseach and Tánaiste about that. It is a matter of us seeing progress, ensuring that we can deal with the trade element. The occupied territories Bill is as it is. We would much prefer if it covered services, but we have to use the absolute maximum that we have as regards leverage on Israel. We must follow what Mary Manning and those very brave women did when, as Dunnes Stores workers, they decided not to handle South African goods. I have said this before. It was a very small act in one way but it turned out to be part of a much bigger boycott project, which became a major part of the anti-apartheid struggle. Sometimes you have to take a first step yourself. We will only see movement when we, alongside others, force the issue, and when the regular Israeli is made to feel like a pariah, when the American allies feel that there is too much heat even for them, and when capital interests in Israel feel they are not able to trade as they were previously. It is unfortunate that this is the road the world has to go down but we have been witnessing a brutal, genocidal action. We have seen that Benjamin Netanyahu is absolutely committed to ensuring there is no two-state solution. We have to stand by the Palestinians in the way we can. I echo what a number of my colleagues have said. It has been a disappointing week for us as regards what we saw as very sensible initial moves on preparation for Irish unity. I do believe the framework within Europe provides us with a facility to deliver this. There is an absolute need for us to engage with European partners on the supports that will be available from Europe if a united Ireland is to happen. I have no doubt that if Irish unity is to happen, it is in Europe's interests that it is as seamless as possible.

Sentiment score: 0.05

I have no doubt the Minister of State himself is disappointed by the move that has been taken by the Government and particularly by the Taoiseach. The Tánaiste seemed more open to a dialogue across the House on coming up with a solution for making those preparations, which are absolutely necessary. We are only talking about starting a journey, which should have started a long time ago, to deliver on Irish unity.

Sentiment score: -0.15