Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

What we and our colleagues in the European Union are insisting on is that the blockade on Gaza be lifted. It is both the Irish Government's and the European Union's view that the blockade of Gaza is unacceptable and counter productive and we have repeatedly called for the unconditional opening of the crossing points to normal movement. Indeed, the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union has stated that in conclusions to its meetings. That view is communicated by our Government, by EU representatives and other member state Ministers to Israel at every opportunity. On the ground, the European Union is engaged with the Palestinian Authority in plans to increase both the physical and administrative capacity on the Palestinian side of the crossing points into Gaza.

I understand entirely the motivation of those who participated in last year's flotilla and I understand the motivation and genuine intent of those who intend to participate in the flotilla this year. However, my Department has a responsibility to provide advice to people who intend to travel, whether by flotilla or however, and that advice must express to people whether we consider there are dangers associated with that travel. We are very clear that this flotilla poses a danger to those travelling on it and we are discouraging people from doing that. In doing that, we echo the view that has been expressed by the UN Secretary General.

See this speech in context