Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I share the views expressed on all sides with regard to the ongoing conflict being imposed on a stricken region. I also echo the compliments and applause for the Egyptian position on this matter. There had been some doubt following the emergence of the Muslim Brotherhood, who are the ideological mentors of Hamas, that this might upset the balance within the region. However, President Morsi is taking a pragmatic view, fortunately, and is obviously aware of the threat to the region posed by any shift in alliances. The fact that Egypt is supporting the continuing bilateral discussions between Israel and Hamas is to be welcomed. It is hoped there will be a resolution of the situation. I believe everybody is agreed that the last thing that is needed is a ground invasion of the Gaza. Israel has overwhelming military superiority but, as even its supporters will say, it always seems to inflict horrors of far greater proportion than needed.

I unreservedly condemn the brutality of Hamas, which killed seven people yesterday. Members of Hamas are the very people who call for justice. What it did yesterday shamed it before the world. Anybody who has sympathy and empathy with the sufferings of the Palestinian people should unreservedly condemn what it did in this regard. I and other speakers have asked that the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade come to the House to hear statements on this issue. It is imperative that he do so. As I have stated previously - I am sure everybody will agree - this House has a long and proud tradition of discussing the Middle East, far more so than the Dáil, simply because it is the type of Chamber which allows this type of debate. Debates on the Middle East are usually balanced and fair.

I support Senator Quinn's comments in regard to the reports in today's media about Irish consumers purchasing what they assume to be Irish-made goods. In the run-up to Christmas, we should regularly repeat in this House the view that, where possible, people should buy Irish-made goods. As a result of this report, they should now go further in ensuring the goods they are buying are made in Ireland.