President Michael D Higgins has paid tribute to all Irish women and men directly engaged in peacekeeping and humanitarian relief around the world In his St Patrick’s Day message.
He said that this year people in Gaza, who are facing the most horrific circumstances of war and displacement, will be in the thoughts of Irish people.
President Higgins said an example of Irishness at its best, in a world marked by conflicts and unrest, is Ireland’s practical contribution to peace-building as part of its commitment to living in peace and harmony with its global family.
He focused on what is happening in Gaza and he referenced the attack by Hamas last October which he said was followed by a reprisal and a horrific assault leading to the collective punishment of the people of Gaza.
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Read the speech in full here | Teachtaireacht ón Uachtarán do Lá Fhéile Pádraig
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President Higgins also called for an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages.
He said images of child deaths and malnutrition are carried each day on the television screens across the world and many more are threatened with what will be a human-induced famine.
The President praised Ireland for taking a lead in giving increased aid to UNRWA.
He added it is a move that Irish people can be proud of adding that it was influenced by the country’s history and the urgent need to uphold international and humanitarian law.
