Failure to enact Occupied Territories Bill deeply cynical
Labour foreign affairs spokesperson Duncan Smith TD has criticised Government’s move to further kick the can on enacting the Occupied Territories Bill.
Deputy Smith said:
“Just this afternoon, a reported 85 Palestinians were killed and dozens injured in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza. At almost the same time, the Taoiseach is committing to watering down the Occupied Territories Bill, one of the only mechanisms we have as a nation to show solidarity the people of Palestine.
“I am calling on Tanaiste Simon Harris to publish the proposed amendments to the Occupied Territories Bill immediately. There is widespread agreement across the aisles on the need to pass this legislation, so why the delay?
“Throughout the General Election, a mere four months ago, both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil reaffirmed their commitment to this piece of legislation. Since their latest coalition has formed, all we’ve seen is row backs.
“We hear support for the Occupied Territories Bill from people all over the country. We in Labour have long advocated for more effective trade sanctions on Israel, similar to the international pressure that helped end apartheid in South Africa. Israel’s actions have been abundantly clear – we need concerted international pressure.
“This is about sending a message to the people of Palestine. A message that Ireland sees their suffering, Ireland stands with them, and Ireland will not turn a blind eye. The Taoiseach’s failure to do so is outrageous.”