Mark Wall (Kildare South, Labour)

I begin by sending my solidarity to the global flotilla. A number of boats in the fleet have already suffered attacks as Israeli aggression tries to derail the flotilla's journey. I condemn these attacks and hope that all the crew and passengers will remain safe.

I highlight a petition by one of my constituents, Holly Caffrey, calling for action on Gaza. It is one of many actions by the people of Kildare South to call out these crimes on the people of Palestine. The death toll in Gaza has reached unimaginable levels. It has reached over 66,000 according to recent reports. These figures often hide the untold devastation inflicted on a whole population. We have seen the Israeli war machine wipe out entire generations, entire towns, entire villages. This is genocide of epic proportions, the effects of which will continue to ripple throughout history. We must always continue to call this out as what it is, a genocide. Every day Israel continues to commit war crimes against the people of Gaza while many western leaders stand back. It gives me great hope that so many in this House have called out this genocide.

However, we must move beyond words and towards action. The Government must act and make its occupied territories Bill a priority for the legislative programme this autumn and it must include services, as recommended by the Oireachtas Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade. While Ireland is a small country, our voice is one of the loudest on Gaza. We must continue this effort and lead the way as many countries are already following us by recognising the State of Palestine. Along with my Labour Party colleagues, I continue call for Israel to be isolated by the international community, whether that be through Eurovision or a UEFA ban.

We must look at every possible action to stop the genocide.

As my colleague has done, I cautiously welcome news of a peace plan for Gaza as announced by the US President Donald Trump. However, it has yet to be fully agreed by all parties. More details are needed on elements of the plan such as the proposed board of peace.

I hope we can see an end to the war in Gaza. Nothing else is acceptable. There must be a lasting peace in the region which is built on a two-state solution. We must see action soon.

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