Dear Editor,
Though the present administration has staunchly impeded the Occupied Territories Bill throughout its time in office, it now strangely asserts that such legislation has become feasible due to a ruling from the International Court of Justice in July; a claim which doesn’t hold water upon scrutiny (“Bill Regarding Occupied Territories to be Considered by Cabinet,” News, 22nd October).
For a significant period, parliamentary motions and governmental departmental reports consistently recognised Ireland’s urgent requirement to sever its involvement with the unlawful settlement project spearheaded by Israel. Furthermore, they have continuously vowed to undertake definite actions.
In the fifth month of 2021, a motion was passed unanimously by Dáil, recognising Israel’s unlawful annexation of occupied territories in the West Bank. It commanded Ireland not to extend any form of support or aid that would perpetuate this situation.
It was in July 2021 when the Joint Committee concerning Foreign Affairs and Defence proposed tangible diplomatic and economic measures in circumstances where Israel breaches international law. The committee once again appealed to Ireland not to extend any aid or assistance that would support the annexation.
Despite this, as the Israeli military continues bombarding and causing scarcity amongst Palestinians in Northern Gaza, goods from Israel’s illegal settlements continue to fill Irish supermarket shelves.
Given these circumstances, it’s hard to trust in Tánaiste Micheál Martin’s claim to seek a “legal pathway forward”. If the current government parties manage to reclaim power after the forthcoming general elections, the past four years of evidence hint that they’ll be satisfied with more discussions and find reasons against legislating.
Yours Faithfully,
Brian Ó Éigeartaigh
Dublin 4.