Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

My Department is aware of the case of an Irish citizen believed to be held hostage in Gaza and is providing extensive consular assistance to the citizen's family. As I am sure the Deputy will appreciate, it is not possible for me to comment further at this time as it would not be helpful to do so. I reiterate my call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages currently being held in Gaza.

There are many thousands of foreign and dual nationals and immediate dependents in Gaza who are seeking to leave. Their departure, through the Rafah Border crossing, is being managed by the relevant authorities, country by country, on a phased basis.

Amongst this group, there are a number of Irish citizens and their dependants. My Department is in daily phone contact with these families. Let me assure you that we have been providing extensive consular assistance to the Irish citizens concerned and will continue to do so.

The names of all Irish citizens in Gaza who have asked to be included on the list of those planning to leave have been submitted to the relevant authorities.

Our Embassies in Cairo and Tel Aviv are in constant communication with the authorities in Egypt and Israel to press for our citizens to be allowed to leave as soon as possible.

I am continuing to consult widely with regional partners on these issues, including in meetings during my visit to the region this week.

My Department will continue to directly update Irish citizens in Gaza as we have confirmed information.