Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

I also wish to condemn the killing yesterday of Sheikh Yassin which, apart from endangering the lives of Israeli citizens, maintains the never-ending cycle of violence which leads to loss of life on both sides. Although the House was not sitting at the time, it is important also to condemn the killing of ten people last week by two Palestinian suicide bombers in the city of Ashdod.

Senator O'Toole spoke about the significance of a religious and political leader but I feel it is even worse when civilians are killed while going about their daily business. The Israeli Government is taking the wrong approach and there is dissent within Sharon's Cabinet. In condemning their latest action, we must be clear also about condemning any threats of revenge through suicide bombings. The Palestinian Authority must do the same.