Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

As the Taoiseach has said, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs has set out, the Government has made a very strong statement on this matter, and the Labour Party supports that strong position. We specifically support the demand for the safe passage of the MV Rachel Corrie, the unconditional release of those detained and the establishment of a full independent and international inquiry into the killings that took place on the flotilla. One of the issues that has become clear over the years is that the Government of Israel seems to be very often immune to strong international calls, demands by the United Nations and United Nations resolutions. The blockade of Gaza itself is not legal but there seems to be an attitude on the part of the Government of Israel when issues like this arise that it will simply weather the storm and ignore international opinion.

What actions has the Government considered in the event of the Government of Israel ignoring the calls the Taoiseach has rightly made in respect of the safe passage of the MV Rachel Corrie, the unconditional release of those who have been detained and the establishment of a full independent and international inquiry? Has the Government given any thought to what action will need to be taken if the Government of Israel does not comply with those calls made by the Government and the governments of other countries? Has the Taoiseach given any consideration, for example, to withdrawing of the Irish ambassador from Israel for consultation, a course of action I understand is being considered by other European countries? Has the Government been in contact with any of the other members states, in particular the High Representative on Foreign Affairs of the European Union with regard to action being taken on a co-ordinated basis by the European Union in the event that the Government of Israel persists in the course of action it appears to be taking and of it ignoring the call made on it by the Irish Government, a call supported right across the political spectrum in this country and by the Governments of other countries and the EU?

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