Maria McCormack (Sinn Fein)

As mentioned last night, our colleague and friend Senator Chris Andrews, along with a number of other Irish citizens, was detained in international waters by heavily armed Israeli forces while on a peaceful humanitarian mission to Gaza. The mission was, as Senator Rabbitte clearly pointed out, about nothing more than bringing food and medicine to starving families. It was humanitarian, it was peaceful and it was non-violent, yet boats were seized and people were taken while the world watched. I want to acknowledge today the bravery and genuine determination of Senator Andrews, and of every Irish citizen who took part in the flotilla. Their courage is real. Their actions were rooted in compassion and solidarity, not politics. It was said in this Chamber last week when Senator Andrews' statement was read into the record that somehow this was about playing politics. I hope the whole House hears this clearly: this goes much deeper than politics. This is about humanity, international law, protecting Irish citizens and standing with people facing starvation, genocide and destruction. This is a serious breach of international law. The people taken last night are not combatants; they are parliamentarians, aid workers and human rights activists. They must be released. Senator Ruane will be tabling an amendment to the Order of Business and Sinn Féin will support it. I welcome the statement from the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. We need to secure the safe release of Senator Andrews, all our citizens, all who were detained and all flotilla passengers. There is a more important issue, however.It is a very sad day. I am gutted that the hopes of the people of Gaza, who are waiting desperately for this aid to arrive, have once again been crushed as the world looks on. I am frightened for my colleague and our citizens. I despair for the people of Gaza. I will not be silent while they continue to be in danger. Saoirse don Phalaistín.