Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail)

I also welcome the ambassador. It is a pleasure to meet him once again. We met on St. Patrick's Day in Newbridge as a result of the very active twinning we have with Bad Lippspringe. I wish all German citizens living in Ireland and those with links to Germany a happy independence and commemoration day.

Before moving to the Order of Business, I propose to read out a statement. I want to address the House on the subject of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a fleet of almost 50 vessels aiming to deliver humanitarian aid and establish an open, sustained humanitarian corridor to Gaza. Like many other Senators, I have been closely monitoring reports overnight of the flotilla's interception by the Israeli navy and the resulting detention of a number of Irish citizens, including, as we are all aware, our colleague Senator Chris Andrews. In this situation, the very clear priority must be to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens. I understand from the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputy Simon Harris, that he has convened a special meeting this morning with senior officials in the Department of foreign affairs to discuss the latest developments. He has also spoken with Ireland's ambassador to Israel and will remain in contact with his EU counterparts. Officials from the Department, including those in the embassy in Tel Aviv, are actively engaged with the situation and are providing consular assistance to those affected. Department officials are also in direct and ongoing dialogue with the designated point of contact for the flotilla. Furthermore, the embassy in Tel Aviv remains in direct contact with the authorities in Israel. It is seeking consular access to the detainees as soon as possible, but is mindful that today is a religious holiday in Israel. This is an evolving situation that we will all continue to monitor closely as we keep the many Irish citizens involved, including our friend and colleague Senator Andrews, in our thoughts.