Violet-Anne Wynne (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The objective for all of us in this House should be to stand up against the brutality and injustice that has been unfolding in front of our eyes. Yesterday I stated that the public are outraged by the scenes of inhumanity and that they could care less for the differences in this House, especially when it comes to atrocities on a scale such as that we have seen. I acknowledge the emails my office has received from concerned citizens, the total number of which rose above 10,000 this morning. I want those people to know that I understand their concerns and that the innocent people of Palestine have my unreserved support, which I hope I have shown over these past weeks.

Our history means that our people need and are demanding a response from our leaders that is significant, brave and meaningful. The idea is that this will spur the right action in the context of a ceasefire, the continued release of hostages and the opening of humanitarian corridors. This Government could take many steps, and these have been fleshed out in the Chamber quite extensively in recent weeks. The public needs this reassurance that whatever can be done, will be done and that we will not shy away from saying what needs to be said now. All our stomachs are turning at the images of children suffering and this is why we will continue to have motions on this important matter.

I fully support economic sanctions and the ICC referral, which I first suggested 25 days ago. The Government's statement that an investigation is already open does not explain why there is no willingness to refer Israel to the ICC. This is an action that could be both significant and easily done. I am concerned about the call for the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador and what undesirable impacts this may incur. I do not believe that any action should be taken that would put any more lives in danger. It must be said that we know more than most that at times when significant steps were taken during the Troubles, it was diplomacy and back-channelling that paved the way to get both sides around the table and, unfortunately, these conversations need to be had in this context. I had proposed that the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Micheál Martin, formally summon the Israeli ambassador. I reiterate this call.

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