In the words of Mary Lou McDonald, Sinn Féin leader, the United States has made catastrophic mistakes in its dealings with Palestine. During her recent visit to Washington DC, Ms. McDonald stated that Sinn Féin’s influence had been well-received with respect to Ireland, particularly due to the re-establishment of the Northern Ireland Executive. However, regarding the ongoing violent assault on Gaza and the West Bank, she emphasised the dire need for a ceasefire and for U.S. leadership on the issue. Further, Ms. McDonald urged the U.S. to adopt a stronger stance towards Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and his administration.
In an interview with Sky News, she expressed appreciation for the U.S.’s support for Ireland’s peace process, but criticised the country’s approach to Palestine. Ms. McDonald dismissed the idea that Sinn Féin should boycott White House events due to America’s backing of Israel, reaffirming her commitment to ending the violence resulting in the death of women and children in Gaza, currently estimated at 30,000.
Arguing from a uniquely Irish perspective, she emphasised the necessity of using the strong relationships that Ireland has with both the U.S. and the Palestinians to press for peace. She asserted that the U.S. holds a central role as a powerful ally and supporter of Israel. Consequently, addressing and challenging this relationship is a crucial step in resolving the conflict.
With Pro-Palestine activists showcasing their indignation towards the attendance of Irish politicians at the White House’s St Patrick’s ceremony, Ms McDonald from Sinn Féin maintains that her party is primed for the approaching general elections, even though recent opinion polls might suggest the contrary. The party also experienced a downslide in support demonstrated by other recent surveys.
On top of this, Sinn Féin, along with the Coalition and a considerable part of the Opposition, ended up on the unsuccessful side during the family and care referendums. When asked whether Sinn Féin was out of touch with their voters, Ms McDonald emphasised that the party’s commitment should centre on the prevailing housing crisis in Ireland and the “immediate necessity” to rectify it, along with troubles in the healthcare system and providing chances for the youth.
“We have been the dominant and foremost party in the polls for years now,” Ms McDonald stated. Justifying the party’s commitment, she said the party eagerly anticipates election campaigning, especially for the general election, offering individuals the choice for a different, forward-looking future. Despite the referendum results, she said her faith remains unshaken in the kind of transformation they’re championing.
Ms McDonald indicated that her belief in rallying public support for providing a fresh government to rectify their issues remains resilient. When inquired if she foresees herself delivering the shamrock in the White House next year as the Taoiseach, she humbly commented, “I don’t hold any presumptions about myself. I’m entitled to nothing. What I can assure you is our sincere and relentless effort. When the general elections arrive, I’ll put forth our policies, introduce our team, and ask humbly for an opportunity to lead the government.”
Commenting on immigrations, she expressed that most of the public simply desires competent administration that is effectively managing the situation, which she doesn’t believe exists currently. “I advocate representing a system that’s equitable, a system that’s effective, and a system that’s enforced,” she added.