46. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has any plans to provide extra supports to students from Gaza, in light of the awful situation they and their families have endured and continue to face in Palestine (details supplied); if he will take extra steps to further support these students; the measures he can take in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25744/24]

The Ireland Fellows Programme is an important programme of the Department of Foreign Affairs, to build the capacity of graduate students from developing countries through participation in Masters courses at Higher Education Institutions in Ireland.  It is managed for the Department by the Irish Council for International Students (ICOS).

There are currently 22 Fellows from the Occupied Palestinian Territory participating in the Programme for the academic year 2023-24, 11 of them from Gaza.  ICOS is their main point of contact on practical arrangements for their stay in Ireland.  This is a particularly stressful time for the students from Gaza and, in consultation with the Department, ICOS have supported Gazan Fellows to adjust their study programmes in response to their difficult circumstances.  This support is ongoing.  In addition, Department officials are in direct contact with each of the Gazan Fellows to discuss their situation.  With ICOS, officials will provide advice on issues, including the procedures to apply for the Third Level Graduate Programme, also known as the Stay Back Visa.