I called to the Palestinian Mission to sign to book of condolences for Saeb Erekat. His life’s work was a negotiated just peace, this work must and will continue. I also took the opportunity to pay tribute to his work in Dáil Éireann.

Full Speech Transcript:

Given that this is my first opportunity to speak on the matter, I wish to take just a quick moment to mark the passing of Saeb Erekat and to echo the words of Uachtarán na hÉireann today in offering my deepest condolences and sympathy to his family, his friends and the Palestinian people. Dr. Hanan Ashrawi described this as a significant transition in Palestinian history and reality. In light of how closely aligned Saeb Erekat was with negotiated settlements and talks between Israel and Palestine and his vocal support for a two-state solution, one hopes that this will not be left in the past as he passes away. With the recent passing of Robert Fisk, the Middle East is now a very different place and we are without the guides we had before. That can be quite dangerous.