Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is sometimes difficult to know what the best thing to say is when it comes to any discussion on Gaza. There is lots we can say. We have had a number of debates at this point. As I have said, there is plenty to say but the question sometimes is what is the best thing to say. What will help or make any difference to a very difficult situation? To me, the most valuable contribution we could make as a Parliament is to have an agreed position. This would be really strong. It would send a message on this unspeakable conflict, this unspeakable loss of life and, crucially in my view, this diminution of hope that we can find a sustainable peaceful outcome. It makes it even more important that we as a Parliament could find agreed positions.

I am not sure I see this happening, and I take responsibility for my part in it. Yesterday, we had a debate and we are having a debate this morning. We have had various amendments to the resolutions coming in at the last minute and this is democracy. Perhaps I am naïve but to me the issue is well beyond any kind of politics. As a Parliament, we need to have a largely agreed position and to speak with one voice. This requirement is on all of us, myself included.

My time is limited, but I want to say it is important that we take a stand. In this context, I largely support the motion and some of the amendments put forward. I support South Africa in its case to the ICJ under the genocide convention. There is sufficient evidence to make this case. Initially we all condemned the brutal attack by Hamas and then the disproportionate response by Israel. Today, Benjamin Netanyahu is reported as saying to cadets that total victory is the objective. We know what this means. We need to support South Africa's case. In critical situations, we sometimes need to do what we can. In that context, I ask once again that we make renewed and vigorous efforts to get dependents of Irish citizens out of Gaza as quickly as possible.

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