Bannon supports calls for ceasefire in Gaza

Fine Gael Longford/ Westmeath TD, James Bannon has, today (Monday), supported calls for a ceasefire in Gaza to prevent further loss of life.

“I am extremely upset about the violence that has taken place in Gaza over the last number of weeks. I visited Gaza myself in 2011 and I experienced first hand the conditions in which people are living.

“Only open and honest dialogue can achieve any long and lasting results. Ireland has consistently urged the parties to resume meaningful negotiations to achieve a comprehensive peace agreement based on a two state solution. It is clear that no ceasefire will last without a serious political effort to address the causes of the disastrous situation in Gaza. It is imperative to bring about an end of the restrictions imposed on the people by the continuing Israeli blockade and the general closing off of Gaza. The continued absence for people in Gaza of any political or economic perspective for the future is a breeding ground for extremist action.

“I have been contacted by many constituents who are extremely concerned about the situation and I want to assure them that I share those concerns.

“The Minister for Foreign affairs has met with the Israeli Ambassador to Ireland and with Palestinian representatives in the last week. The Government has consistently called for a ceasefire and we continue in this call.

“Ireland has been a steadfast supporter of the Palestinian people. Since 2005, Ireland has provided more than €40 million to the United Relief and Works Agency’s General Fund to provide health, education and emergency services to Palestinian refugees across its five areas of operation, including Gaza.

“At the core of this situation is the senseless loss of life and this is something that we must speak out against. Over 1,000 people have died at this stage. It’s time for the main parties to sit down and to come to an agreement to stop the carnage.