Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

The only issue he seems to be concerned about is the protest. With regard to the protest, I made my position clear. The travel advice provided by my Department was consistent with the travel advice we provide to anyone going into dangerous circumstances. I was hugely conscious of the actions that took place last year, and which I condemn. I met the organisers of the Irish group in the flotilla and on two separate occasions I raised the matter with the Israel authorities, once with the ambassador and once with a representative of the Israeli Government, and made clear our view that we did not want a repeat of last year and that the safety of those participating in the flotilla must be ensured.

When we got reports of damage to the MV Saoirse we asked for a report of what had happened to it. I have told the House what the Turkish authorities reported in relation to that. If Deputy Boyd Barrett has evidence other than what I have given I ask him to produce it and I will have it investigated.

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