"I was grateful for the opportunity to meet with Thomas Hand this afternoon.

"Everyone in Ireland feels the deepest sympathy for Thomas and all the Hand family, given the horrific and traumatic ordeal they are currently experiencing.

"Emily will turn 9 on Friday next week (17 November). This brilliant and talented young girl needs to be returned to her family immediately.

"My department will leave no stone unturned in pursuing that outcome.

"We have been engaging intensively internationally through political, official and security channels in a bid to secure Emily’s safe return.

"Later this week, I will be raising Emily’s case in all appropriate meetings during my visit to Israel, Egypt and the occupied Palestinian territory.

"All our thoughts are with Emily and her family at this profoundly difficult time. All hostages in Gaza should be released immediately and unconditionally."

---

Notes