Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Thankfully, the hunger strike by Palestinian prisoners has ended following an agreement at the weekend. It is understood that a new arrangement for a second family visit per month, and possibly other understandings, was the basis for ending the strike. The hunger strike by over 1,000 prisoners was a matter of great concern as it was entering its seventh week. I am relieved that it has ended without tragedy. We spoke directly about the need to avoid a tragic outcome with the Israeli ambassador and in other contacts with the Israeli authorities. The EU missions in Palestine, including Ireland’s mission in Ramallah, issued a public statement concerning the hunger strikes calling on Israel to respect fully the rights of prisoners. A further EU statement at higher level was being prepared when the strike ended.

I have said on the record that I do not believe there is any positive use of hunger strikes. When we expressed the concern of the Irish Government, we had to be conscious that many prisoners, including some of those who were on hunger strike, have been convicted of serious and violent offences. In addition, we were conscious that we could express similar or stronger concerns about prisoners in many other jurisdictions in the region, including Israel. We raised this matter in a low-key way for two reasons. First, we cannot support or encourage the use of hunger strikes as a means of exerting pressure. I have rejected its use on numerous occasions internationally and I will continue to do so. Second, we are aware from our own history of the real risk of attitudes hardening on either side, leading to tragedy, and of the danger of hunger strikes leading to increased tensions and clashes on the streets. We did not want to say anything that could add to that risk. I will not comment on the specific issues raised by the strikers. We have little detail on what has been agreed. I reiterate that my essential position and that of the Irish Government is that detained Palestinians should have the same protections and conditions that Israel affords to its own citizens when they are under detention. Under international law, Palestinian prisoners should be held within their own territory. In that context, I emphasise that when Palestinians are being held in Israel, special attention must be given to ensuring family visits are realistically facilitated.

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