Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)

A former Irish Army colleague of Deputy Timmins, John Ging, plays a crucial role in UNWRA. While it is very important, ideally UNWRA should not be necessary if the Palestinian situation had been solved. The Irishman who does such good work there says that he is facing continual blocks on the most essential medical aid, essential aid for child nutrition and plastic bags. The Israeli authorities suggest that these commodities are being used by those involved in subversive activities. Would the Minister agree that what is happening in Gaza, and the situation Mr. Ging and UNWRA are forced to work in, is little less than a siege?

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