Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

If one studies world history, one will realise that in any part of the world where the electoral decision of a majority has not been accepted or crushed by another state the long-term result has been to prolong suffering. It is vital that George Mitchell ensures Hamas is brought into any negotiations that will take place. Israel may think its endeavours to wipe out the leadership of Hamas, including Ministers and representatives who have been elected by their own people, has put an end to the matter or changed its status but they have had the opposite effect. We have witnessed this in every country, including this one. I would welcome a debate on the matter. It would be wrong of us to suggest that because the bombing, killing, brutality and butchery have come to an end the perpetrators should not be held accountable by the free world. If that does not happen, we will have undermined the entire concept of democracy and uniting against the terrorism inflicted on Gaza.