Garret Kelleher (Fine Gael)

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire Stáit as ucht teacht isteach, go háirithe nuair nach raibh sé ag súil leis an díospóireacht thiubh. Chomh maith le mo chomhghleacaithe eile, tá imní orainn faoin méid atá ag tarlúint. Like Senator Kyne, I am deeply concerned about the interception of the flotilla. As my colleagues, Senators Comyn and O'Loughlin, have alluded to, this is of deep concern. I am happy that the Tánaiste, the Minister of State, Deputy Byrne, and those in the Department of foreign affairs are doing everything in their power to ensure the Irish citizens involved are returned safely. I would like to express my solidarity with our colleague, Senator Andrews, an Teachta Heneghan, Tadhg Hickey and all of those involved.

What has happened with the interception, as referenced by Senator O'Loughlin in her citation of maritime law, is a clear breach of international law. The Israeli response and the publicity around it are very unhelpful, in particular referring to the flotilla as a Hamas flotilla, which it is not and which is veering into the area of propaganda. It is a misrepresentation of those involved, who are doing their level best to provide humanitarian assistance during what has become internationally recognised, and recognised by the United Nations, as a genocide. The efforts of those involved to get humanitarian assistance, aid, food and essential medical supplies into Gaza are to be commended. As Senator Kyne said, it highlights the vital need for the opening-up of humanitarian corridors into Gaza to allow people much-needed help and humanitarian assistance.

We had a visit earlier from the German ambassador, organised by the Cathaoirleach. It is important to use all of these opportunities to link in with our EU neighbours to see what more we can do, as a group of countries collectively, to bring an end to the violence and the atrocities that are taking place in Gaza. As we approach the day of German independence, and the celebration of the reunification of Germany and what has been achieved peacefully since, we look upon international conflict resolution success stories as an inspiration.

To conclude, I reiterate my solidarity with those involved. I thank the Department of foreign affairs and the Ministers for the work they have done. I wish all those involved, particularly the Irish citizens, a safe return.