Dail observes minute’s silence in solidarity with French people

A minute’s silence was observed by the Dáil in solidarity with the French people, following a series of statements condemning last week’s murders.

The attendance in the VIP gallery included French ambassador to Ireland, Jean-Pierre Thébault.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny extended his deepest sympathy, on behalf of the Government and the Irish people, to those grieving the loss of the 17 men and women murdered in Paris.

“To us they are artists, police, men and women who lost their lives,’’ he added.

"Equally, I extend again my sympathy and solidarity to President Hollande and the French nation.'' Mr Kenny said the attacks were an assault not only on the people of Europe but also on our basic values of freedom and democracy. "Freedom of the press and freedom of expression are values we in Europe hold dear,'' he added.

Tradition of satire

Brendan Howlin

said the innocent civilians murdered were guilty of nothing other than availing of their freedom of expression by engaging in the French tradition of satire.

"The killers also targeted French police officers who were carrying out their normal work in the line of duty,'' he added. Micheál Martin and Gerry Adams also expressed their solidarity.