Nicole Ryan (Sinn Fein)

I commend my colleague Senator Andrews, who has shown real courage in joining in the Global Sumud Flotilla to bring humanitarian aid to Gaza. It takes bravery to step into those boats knowing the risks, but he did so out of conscience. He was not alone. Irish citizens, activists and human rights defenders from across the world were on board, standing in solidarity with the people of Gaza. Too often, we applaud words but shy away from action. These activists have taken the step, putting their own safety on the line, to highlight a genocide that can no longer be ignored. They deserve not just our respect, but equally our support. The Irish Government cannot sit idly by. We welcome the update from the Deputy Leader this morning, but we must ensure that Senator Andrews and all those aboard are treated with dignity and brought home safely. Today is a reminder that politics is not just what we say here but what we are willing to do when human lives are at stake. I am incredibly proud of Senator Andrews, who has shown he is not only willing to talk the talk inside this Chamber, but equally walk the walk with the other activists on the flotilla. We are proud of Senator Andrews and stand with him and all of the activists onboard, along with the people of Palestine. We need to stop the genocide now. Saoirse don Phalaistín.