Labour renews push for robust Occupied Territories Bill
Labour renews push for robust Occupied Territories Bill - The Labour Party
Labour’s Ciarán Ahern TD speaking today from the plinth at Leinster House, called for the inclusion of services in the Occupied Territories Bill.
Deputy Ahern said:
“We in the Labour Party have stood firm for years in our support for the Occupied Territories Bill. In 2018, we proudly co-signed it alongside Senator Frances Black because Ireland must not be complicit in any way with the illegal occupation of Palestinian lands. Today, I am calling clearly for the Bill to include services, not just goods. We do not believe that there is a legal basis to leave this loophole open.
“Over the past 20 months, we have all watched in horror as the Israeli government has unleashed an illegal and brutal campaign in Gaza and across the occupied territories. Since November 2024, the world has seen unimaginable suffering: more than 50,000 civilians have been killed in what can only be described as genocide. These atrocities must be condemned, not just in our statements but through real, enforceable action.
“Our position is simple: Ireland should not allow our economy or our services to in any way sustain or profit from the occupation. Banning goods is not enough — we must ban services too.
“Government has dragged its feet on this Bill for far too long. I am calling for the Dáil to remain in session over the summer, to enable the swift passage of the Bill. This must be a priority.
“This is Ireland’s chance to lead by example. Let us stand firmly on the side of international law, human rights, and peace. It’s time to finish what we started and deliver the Occupied Territories Bill in full — with services included — and do it now.”