Middle East Conflict

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 June 2010

Thursday, 3 June 2010

Questions (113)

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

112 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on reports of killings, overnight, aboard a flotilla seeking to bring humanitarian aid to Gaza, included in which were Irish civilians; if he will report on his meeting with the Israeli ambassador due to have taken place on Monday 31 May; if he will suggest a common EU response to this action and discuss such with his colleague Ministers across the EU; his further views on whether diplomatic sanctions are a possible response; and if so, if he will outline those sanctions which he proposes. [24076/10]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Deputy Micheál Martin)

I have reported to the House in detail on the questions raised by the Deputy, in the special debate held on Tuesday 1 June. I made clear the Government's condemnation of the use of military force which has led to the deaths of an estimated ten persons. I also reported on my meeting with the Israeli Ambassador in which I conveyed the Government's views through him to his authorities. Further to that debate, I welcomed on 2 June the decision of the Israeli Government to release immediately all those detained on the ships, some of whom have already begun to depart Israel. I repeated my call to Israel to allow the MV Rachel Corrie, which is still at sea, to deliver its cargo unhindered to Gaza.

EU High Representative Ashton has made a number of public statements on these events, including clearly condemning the use of violence and demanding an immediate, full and impartial inquiry into the events, which I welcome. The EU Presidency in Israel has also been active in relation to the consular protection of those detained. I have asked High Representative Ashton to facilitate a discussion on this issue at the next Foreign Affairs Council on 14 June. I am also in contact with my EU colleagues on the matter.