Mary Fitzpatrick (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for being here this morning. I thank the Tánaiste also and everyone in the House for making time.

I believe there is unanimity in this House on the condemnation of the atrocities of 7 October. It goes beyond words to describe the horror that was experienced and visited upon the Israeli people when more than 1,000 people were killed and injured and more than 250 were taken hostage. Everybody condemns that, but the only atrocity that has surpassed it has been the military operations of the Israel Defense Forces. It is beyond words to articulate the horror the Palestinian people are experiencing. The barbarity, depravity and lack of humanity that must exist in those who are perpetrating it is beyond comprehension. Ireland is a very small country. We are a very privileged island. I am proud that we have used what influence we have to condemn the atrocities, genocide and war on humanity. I am proud that as a small country, we have tried to lead other bigger countries to join in our condemnation and work for a ceasefire and a two-state solution.

Before the Minister of State, the Tánaiste said that it is not enough. The Minister of State recognises that it is not enough. We all recognise that it is not enough. We are a strong member of the European Union. When history is written, the European Union will not have covered itself in glory or anything near that. The European Union needs to act with strength. It is not sufficient to review the agreement between the EU and Israel. There must be an immediate suspension of that agreement.

Finally, I ask that the Irish Government seeks permission from the Israeli Government to go and visit the EU office in Gaza and demand that the European Union retains that office in Gaza.