Gilmore condemns 'deplorable crime' after 90 deaths in Syria

The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Eamon Gilmore has called the killing of more than 90 civilians, including children, in Houla, Syria a "deplorable act and a clear crime against humanity".

"Those responsible need to know that the international community will insist on full accountability for such atrocities," he said.

"Under the Annan Plan, Syria has committed to withdraw all troops and heavy weaponry from population centres.

"This commitment must be honoured immediately and the international community will need to consider further steps if it is not."

The Tánaiste added that he supported calls for the UN Security Council to meet in emergency session as soon as possible.