Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail)

We have already had an opportunity to discuss this issue briefly this morning. I welcome the fact that the Minister of State made himself available to come to the Seanad Chamber to discuss this. Even though he has a heavy schedule, he changed other commitments in order to come here because he appreciates, as we do, that this is a very important area of discussion and we need to have the loudest voice possible in terms of supporting those civilians who are on the flotilla and condemning the actions of Israel. It is with a very heavy heart but a strong and resolute voice that I stand here on behalf of the Fianna Fáil Party to condemn the recent Israeli attacks on the humanitarian flotilla bound for Gaza. There is no doubt this has absolutely shocked the international community and, more than that, it has violated the very basic tenets of international law. The flotilla was no threat to Israel or anyone else. It was a lifeline. It was carrying medical supplies, food and humanitarian aid. It was bringing not only these, but also hope, support, love, concern and compassion. It was met with force and aggression. Ireland, perhaps because of our history, has long stood for peace, diplomacy and the protection of human rights. It is important to call out what has happened as a breach of international norms. Let us be very clear that, under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, civilian vessels in international waters are protected from hostile engagement. The use of force against unarmed humanitarian volunteers is a flagrant breach of maritime law and an absolute violation of the Geneva Convention.

We stand here to reaffirm Ireland's commitment to international humanitarian law and the protection of civilians in conflict zones. Sometimes, unfortunately, Opposition parties can try to turn this situation, or similar situations, into a matter of taking sides. It is absolutely not about taking sides. This should be, and is, about taking a stand for human rights, law and dignity. We want to send a message not only to Israel but to the world that Ireland will not tolerate the targeting of humanitarian missions. Our neutrality is not passive. Our voice has always been heard when injustice occurs. Let it be heard this time.

I acknowledge what the Minister of State has said about the ongoing efforts being made by the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste and the relevant Departments with Israel and the families of those on the flotilla. I encourage this. Be assured that every single thing that can be done is being done by Ireland and the Government to ensure those civilians who have been taken by the Israel Defense Forces will be treated with compassion and will be released as soon as possible to continue their humanitarian mission.