4. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade on his recent engagements with other states regarding the genocide in Gaza; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38251/25]

Sentiment score: 0.06

What interaction has the Tánaiste had with other states, particularly in the EU, about Gaza? His colleagues in the EU Parliament will today apparently endorse Ursula von der Leyen despite her complete approval of the genocide that is taking place. She made comments about Israel's right to defend itself at a time when the Tánaiste has recognised that a genocide is taking place. Ireland will row in and support Ursula von der Leyen in the Parliament today on a vote of confidence. I also want to ask about the visas.

Sentiment score: 0.15

Given all the Tánaiste has said about recognising there is a genocide and our State's recognition of the Palestinian state, how can we refuse visas to children who are coming here to escape the bombardment in Gaza? Moataz Sarsour GAA Club has been refused visas. From talking and writing with the people involved, I know they have complied on multiple occasions with all the requests of the Department of justice. They have said they found it completely unprofessional and bureaucratic and thought barriers were being put in their way. We have failed to give medical evacuation to Palestinian children-----

Sentiment score: -0.19

-----who were promised care. The Government has stalled the treatment of 18 children from Palestine. The Tánaiste can clarify the situation, but it seems as if it has been stalled because those children may be bringing siblings with them. There seems to be an appalling attitude to getting people over here. I have, for example, tried to get the wife of a citizen and constituent over here. That man is a doctor. I have been told to go through the normal process. Is there no extra help for people coming from Gaza, given what is happening there?

Sentiment score: -0.01

It seems mealy-mouthed in the extreme to call it a genocide when, as one of the richest countries in the world, with a massive budget surplus and health service, a basic thing we could do is to treat some of these children who have suffered the most appalling treatment. They are now being checked repeatedly to ensure that only one person is coming with them. This is terrible. Why is this GAA club facing these barriers? The Tánaiste cited child protection. The GAA itself has comprehensive child protection rules. We opened up for American Football and all sorts of other things in recent times. These children are coming to participate in a well-known institution in this country. They are coming to visit Croke Park and play matches but their visas are being stalled. From speaking on, and listening to, the radio, we know they would have complied with all of the requests.

Sentiment score: 0.01

Why should doctors who are trying to escape from Gaza have to go through the normal process? Can we not give some extra help?

Sentiment score: 0.29