Shatter fails to see purpose behind Gaza aid flotilla

The Minister for Justice Alan Shatter has questioned the wisdom behind those taking part in the international aid flotilla which sets sail today for Gaza.

Twenty-five Irish people on board the MV Saoirse are among a thousand activists in the flotilla hoping to bring reconstruction materials and humanitarian aid to the troubled region.

Last year, nine activists were killed when a Turkish ship which was part of another flotilla was raided by Israeli soldiers as it approached Gaza.

Minister Shatter said what is needed in the Middle East is an active peace process, not "a political protest".