Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The world is now aware of the incidents that took place in international waters in the Mediterranean. I refer to the attack by Israeli commandos on the flotilla carrying humanitarian and medical aid and food supplies that was heading for Gaza. This incident should never have occurred. However, it did happen in international waters. I have heard the Government's comments in respect of this matter and hold that they can be supported.

It has emerged that three Members of the Oireachtas could have been on board vessels in the flotilla. However, a number of Irish citizens were involved in this incident and their lives were placed in mortal danger. In the words of the Minister for Foreign Affairs, they were kidnapped. In view of the sensitivity and importance of this matter and the political priority which must now be afforded to it, is the Taoiseach aware of the current status and location of the Irish citizens to whom I refer? Are they safe and when will they be returning home? The Minister for Foreign Affairs and his Department have been in contact with the Israeli authorities in respect of this matter. Is the Government satisfied that the Irish citizens to whom I refer are safe and does it know their current location? Are these individuals about to be brought home?

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