Dublin Protest After Attack On Gaza Humanitarian Convoy

There is to be a demonstration in Dublin this evening organised by the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign (IPSC) following the reported deaths of ten people travelling with an aid flotilla to Gaza which was stormed by Israeli troops.

A number of Irish citizens were involved in the aid initiative which was designed to bring much needed food and medical supplies to Gaza which has been the subject of a stringent Israeli blockade for many months.

At least one Irish vessel the 1200 tonne Rachel Corrie is involved in the aid initiative; however at this stage it does not appear to have borne the brunt of the Israeli assault which appears to have been directed at the Turkish registered cargo ship Mavi Marmara.

Some media sources are suggesting that up to 15 people may have died many of them Turkish nationals. Many others were wounded.

However the fate of Irish citizens not travelling on the Rachel Corrie is still not clear.

There has been widespread International condemnation of the Israeli action.

In Ireland Minister of Foreign affairs Michael Martin has said he is "gravely concerned" over the incident. Meanwhile the Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, has called for an International enquiry into the attack on the humanitarian convoy.

This evening's demonstration in Dublin will assemble in O'Connell Street and then march to the Israeli Embassy in Ballsbridge, speakers will include Fianna Fail TD Chris Andrews and also Sinn Fein TD Aengus O'Snodaigh.

Mr O Snodaigh has called on Mr Martin to expel the Israeli Ambassador to Ireland. He said, "It looks as though this cold and calculated attack took place in international waters, in breach of all international maritime laws. There must be action from the international community."

The Israeli Ambassador was summoned to the Department of Foreign Affairs this afternoon.

J B Moffatt (Mr)

Director of Information

Celtic League

31/05/10