It has been brought to my attention that at least 11 students from Gaza are on a scholarship programme here through the Irish Council for International Students-Department of Foreign Affairs Irish Aid programme. Academics have confirmed to me that those students have been written to and told they either have go back to where they came from or go somewhere else, while students on similar scholarships from other parts of the world are allowed to stay two years after they finish their studies in the capacity of getting work experience in what they studied. Why are we sending students from Gaza back to carnage or somewhere else? In those circumstances, why does the Government not relent and allow these students to stay? Given we are flying flags and recognising the State of Palestine, the very least we could do is extend a little compassion to those 11, if not more, students. Academics, students and admin people are furious such students are being treated in this way. Will the Government please relent and allow them to stay?

The Deputy tends to be very accusatory, negative and undermining of everything the Government does in respect of anything to do with Palestine.

I just asked you a question.

The Deputy's tone was wrong. The Department of Foreign Affairs has been extremely supportive, as have I and successive Ministers, in respect of fellowships for students from Palestine. We have been for quite a number of years. I do not know the precise detail or background of the issue the Deputy raised. She did not approach me previously about it. I will examine the matter, and will intervene and see what is going on in respect of it. I am sure, however, there is no intention to send anyone back to Gaza right now-----

That is what it says on the letters they got.

-----given that the Department of Foreign Affairs facilitated getting hundreds of Irish citizens and their dependants out of Gaza. There should be a bit of fair play from the Deputy.

Sorry-----

We are a Department that applies humanitarian approaches to these issues.

I apologise for my tone. I am just asking-----

I will find out. I have not seen-----

-----you to do something to make sure those students remain.

-----the details of that. I will find out what is happening and get it sorted.