Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am anxious to assure the House, in particular the Deputies who raised this matter, that I will be happy to convey their views directly to the Israeli ambassador. I am most anxious that diplomatic efforts continue to bring about a ceasefire. I will be attending the Foreign Affairs Council early next week where I will be happy to convey the views of the Government and the House to the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton. I hope those who are suffering on both sides will find some solace from a ceasefire.

In spite of the terror and fighting, the border crossings into Gaza from Israel have remained open. There are deliveries of food and fuel into Gaza while electricity continues to be supplied from Israel, although, as Deputy Mac Lochlainn will be aware, two of the power lines have been cut by missiles from Gaza. This has added to the difficult situation.

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