Independent TD Barry Heneghan has travelled to Sicily to join an international flotilla carrying humanitarian aid in an effort to break the ongoing siege of Gaza.
He is travelling alongside Irish author Naoise Dolan and other international participants.
The flotilla, which will set sail on Wednesday, is transporting essential supplies including food and medicine for the people of Gaza.
Deputy Heneghan said the risks involved are outweighed by the urgent need for solidarity.
"This mission is about delivering humanitarian aid and standing with the humanity and the people of Gaza.
"The ongoing siege is inflicting immense suffering and the recent UN support shows this is genocide. It is vital that the international community takes a stand," he said.
