Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

As I stated, it is my intention to visit the region as soon as I can arrange a visit in my timetable to see the situation on the ground. The matter is very much a priority for the Government's approach to foreign affairs and foreign policy. I have made clear to my colleagues at the European Union Foreign Affairs Council that Ireland wishes this issue to be pursued more actively and wants the European Union to take a more active interest in it. As the Deputy noted, the fact that this has been an ongoing, long-standing problem should not be a reason to leave it to one side. The position in Gaza is serious. The blockade which has been placed on Gaza should not continue and we have repeatedly called for its removal.

We want to see an end to the continuing exchange of hostilities between Hamas and Israel and the killings, loss of life and injury that is occurring. I assure the Deputy that this matter is a high priority for me and the Government and we will do everything we possibly can to make our contribution to try to bring a resolution to the conflict.

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