Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I join in the welcome to the ambassador. I accept and recognise Israel's right to defend its people. All right-thinking people would regard the actions taken, in particular the damage done to schools and hospitals, as being disproportionate. Any other description would be less than accurate. I was hopeful earlier when I heard the Palestinian ambassador's anxiety to get peace negotiations going quickly and productivity. I am very concerned that H.E. Mr. Boaz Modai is giving an indication that it could take a very long time to reach a peaceful resolution of this horrific conflict which has claimed so many lives over the past number of decades.

In light of that, to enable some semblance of life to resume in Gaza for those who have been under siege does Israel intend to adhere to the conditions of the recent ceasefire and lift all restrictions on the free movement of goods and people through crossings into Gaza? I am concerned, in particular, that people are able to move freely and construction materials could be brought into Gaza, subject to suitable security arrangements being put in place.

In regard to the intention of Israel to fund the reconstruction of key buildings and facilities, can the ambassador give us some positive indication that is likely to happen?