In a recent address at a Public Relations Institute of Ireland (PRII) conference in Dublin, Ireland’s ex-president, Mary Robinson, lauded Ireland’s efforts in drawing global attention to the escalating crisis in Gaza. In her keynote speech, she particularly noted the measures taken to impede business transactions with areas of Israeli occupation.
In light of Ireland’s decision to validate Palestine’s statehood, Ms. Robinson emphasised the significance of such a move, and the urgent necessity of persuading other European nations to follow suit. She shared her experiences of positive responses to her nationality during her international interactions, particularly in Middle Eastern countries.
Robinson stressed the paramount significance of the human rights issue within Ireland, expressing deep regret over lines crossed that have seemingly exacerbated the situation, making it more challenging to uphold global human rights standards.
She used her platform to berate Israel’s current administration, referring to it as “bad” and emphasising the urgency of countries across Europe recognising Palestine’s statehood. Robinson also emphasised the endeavour to influence trade transactions as a vital necessary step.
Robinson was speaking at the annual PRII conference held in Croke Park, which provided a spotlight on the requirement to foster unity within Irish society amidst the risks posed by the proliferation of false information.
She also dwelt on the importance of responsible language usage, asserting that thoughtfulness should be employed to avoid causing offence. She cited the derogatory terminology historically used in Ireland for children born out of wedlock as an example of distasteful language.
Additionally, she highlighted the need for responsible language in the discourse surrounding immigration, urging caution to avoid furthering stereotypes and misinformation.
Consider the term ‘illegitimate’ used for a person – it’s absurd, isn’t it? Even so, we continue to tag immigrants as ‘illegal’. What does labelling someone as ‘illegal’ really imply? Indulge in a moment’s thought. It’s truly a remarkable phrase, isn’t it? ‘Illegal’ – what significance does it hold?
Why have they been categorised as ‘illegal’? Simply for entering another country out of sheer desperation, compelled to abandon their homeland and in search of a brighter future – they are deemed ‘illegal’. We should refrain from utilising such terminology,” she expressed.