Ivana Bacik (Dublin Bay South, Labour)

I have acknowledged Ireland's leadership at EU level on Gaza. That is welcome but we can and should do more. The Taoiseach used strong words, which I welcome. He acknowledged that what Israel is carrying out is a war crime. Of course, like the Taoiseach, I have condemned Hamas outright. Of course I have called for the release of all hostages. What Israel is doing now, with impunity, while we see 14,000 infants on the brink of death through starvation, has to stop. Ireland has to do more at international level and here at home to use every lever in our power to stop what Israel is doing. If the Taoiseach fears that the occupied territories Bill will be struck down, let us test that and take that risk, because across the Opposition, there is support for the occupied territories Bill. We have all been pushing for it to be passed. The Taoiseach told me yesterday that there would be progress on it. If the Taoiseach fears that the General Assembly will vote the wrong way, let us find out. Let us take that bold and brave step at a United Nations level. I call on the Taoiseach to do that. Our motion next week will call on all parties in this House to support that step.

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