A motion on the flotilla travelling with aid to Gaza is set to be tabled in the Dáil next week. Among the Irish people participating in the fleet protesting against Israel’s actions in Gaza is Sinn Féin Senator Chris Andrews, who is currently on board the boat targeted in a drone attack on Tuesday night.
The Dáil heard on Wednesday that the vessel carrying Senator Andrews was struck four times during the assault. Following this, a cross-party committee met on Thursday night and decided that a motion concerning the Gaza aid flotilla would be tabled on Tuesday.
According to a statement, the business committee had a constructive discussion regarding the need for a joint motion of the Dáil. The wording of the motion is yet to be finalized and will be tabled on behalf of all members of Dáil Éireann next Tuesday. The deadline for amendments is noon on Monday, after which the final text will be confirmed.
Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald expressed serious concerns about the threat faced by Irish citizens and humanitarian workers on board the flotilla. She highlighted that the grave risks have prompted the governments of Italy and Spain to mobilize naval support to protect their citizens involved in the mission.
“The Government and the Dáil have a clear responsibility to act,” Ms. McDonald stated. She has also written to Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris regarding the highly dangerous situation concerning Senator Andrews and others involved.
With the flotilla only days away from reaching Gaza, the activists are at imminent risk of further assaults by Israeli forces. Ms. McDonald described the threat to Irish citizens and humanitarian workers as incomprehensible and of grave concern.
She emphasized that the Irish Government has a duty to protect its citizens, especially those on a mission of peace and solidarity. Noting the actions of the Italian and Spanish governments, she said they have mobilized naval support because they have assessed the risks posed by Israeli forces.
The Global Sumud Flotilla represents an act of international solidarity and peace, and Ireland must stand firmly with those risking their lives to bring much-needed aid to the beleaguered and starving people of Gaza.
Ms. McDonald also called on the government to publicly and robustly challenge Israel’s misrepresentation of the flotilla’s purpose. Additionally, she urged that Irish citizens and fellow human rights activists participating in the flotilla be allowed to travel safely to Gaza without impediment, assault, or attack, and be able to deliver aid directly to those in need.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/motion-on-gaza-aid-flotilla-to-be-tabled-in-irish-parliament-next-week-1811125.html