Independents criticise Govt over Israeli detentions

Independent TDs have criticised the Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore for a "lack of action" on 14 Irish citizens detained by Israeli authorities.

They were arrested five days ago in international waters aboard the MV Saoirse which was trying to break the blockade of Gaza.

Attempts to get the matter debated in the Dáil have so far failed.

Deputy Richard Boyd-Barrett said the lack of action by the government is "nothing short of disgraceful".

Mr Boyd-Barrett said: "We are calling on the Minister for Foreign Affairs Eamon Gilmore and the Government to speak out and condemn what Israeli has done; and to demand the immediate release of Irish citizens and to demand an explanation from the Israeli authorities as to why they kidnapped, illegally on international waters, 14 Irish citizens.

"It's just inexplicable that our government is allowing themselves and our citizens to be humiliated by the Israeli authorities."