Senator Chris Andrews on the Global Sumud Flotilla

Sinn Féin senator Chris Andrews was among the Irish citizens taking part in the largest-ever civilian effort to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza and bring humanitarian aid to starving Palestinians.

In a statement this morning, Simon Harris said he had convened a meeting of senior officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to review the situation of the 16 Irish citizens.

“Over the past number of weeks, I have repeatedly stated that I understand that the peaceful efforts of those that were on board reflect an understandable desire by many people around the world to urgently address the humanitarian needs of the people of Gaza,” the Tánaiste said.

“I can confirm that, in the last 24 hours, all 16 of our citizens were transferred to a detention facility in southern Israel. In this situation, my clear priority is their safety and wellbeing.

“An embassy team, including our ambassador to Israel, is currently at the detention facility, and is providing all possible and appropriate consular assistance, including ensuring access to legal representation and facilitating medical treatment where necessary.

“Dublin-based officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade are also in close contact with family members who have requested our support.

“I understand that this is an exceptionally difficult time for them, and we will continue to update them as we receive more information.”

He added: “I am aware of a number of Irish citizens participating in other flotillas en route to Gaza and have instructed my Department to closely monitor that evolving situation.”