Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Over a number of weeks many Senators have expressed their concern as regards the humanitarian situation in Gaza. In recent days we have had first-hand accounts of how serious is that situation. Young people in particular are suffering because of lack of medicines and there is no food or proper housing. It is quite clear, based on the responses coming from Israeli sources that there will be no breakthrough in the immediate future.

If would be a pity to embark on the summer recess before making our position clear, particularly on the humanitarian situation. I ask the Leader to consider the possibility of an all-party motion so that we may call for a generous response to ensure that what is happening and the suffering being inflicted stops. It is right for this House to take such an initiative. I believe it would be welcomed by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Micheál Martin, because he has been so good, strong and focused on this issue, as acknowledged by many commentators. The Leader might consider a discussion in the Seanad to bring about an all-party motion, because I believe that would be a great help. As well as that, we must keep this issue at the top of the agenda. There is always a danger that it might be sidelined by other issues. If that happens, it will mean that we just help to prolong the suffering of innocent people. In this day and age, particularly where there is so much international co-operation, that is not acceptable any more.