Patricia Stephenson (Social Democrats)

As I am sure all Senators know and as we heard from Senator McCormack, last night there was once again a breach of international law while the Global Sumud Flotilla, a peaceful humanitarian mission sailing in international waters, was attacked by drones. These boats are a threat to absolutely no one. They carry baby formula, water and the most basic forms of aid. The people on board represent hope and huge amounts of courage. Our own colleague, Senator Andrews, is on board as well as 21 other Irish citizens. They find themselves under attack simply for standing up for the concepts of human dignity and human rights. For the Irish citizens and all of the global citizens on board, we must say enough is enough. We have always said Ireland has a proud history of defending those under siege, defending international law and championing human rights. Today, we have to live up to that truth and the expectation people have of us as representatives. I call on every Member of this House, in particular Senators in Government parties, to speak to their ministerial colleagues urgently and the Tánaiste and Minister for foreign affairs without delay to demand full accountability for this attack and insist on the safety of all of the Irish citizens on board. This is not about party politics; it is about our shared commitment to international law, the right of safe passage and the protection of civilians. If this attack on Irish citizens in international waters does not move us to act, then what will? Let us send a clear and united message from Seanad Éireann that Ireland will not tolerate attacks on our citizens or the targeting of humanitarian missions and will continue to stand up for justice, peace and human rights.

I also lend my support to what Senator Boyhan said regarding the women on hunger strike who have been camping outside Leinster House since Sunday night. They are women in their 60s and 70s who feel completely forgotten and isolated by the State. They have come into this Chamber and pleaded with us to stand up for their rights to healthcare, dignity and respect, having been systematically mistreated by the Irish State since the day they were born. It should not take women on hunger strike outside the Houses of the people for us to take action. I have written a letter to the Taoiseach asking that their demands be acknowledged and acted upon. I hope others will go out and meet them today as well.