Fianna Fáil TD for Louth Erin McGreehan is advocating for the Government to follow the lead of several European countries and ban Israeli ministers from entering Ireland.
Deputy McGreehan’s call comes after France banned Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering the country following his taunting of Gaza flotilla activists detained by Israeli forces.
Speaking on the matter, Deputy McGreehan said:
“This is an opportunity for Ireland to align with our European counterparts and send a clear message ahead of assuming the role of the European Presidency.
“France has acted this week and Slovenia banned Ben-Gvir from entering the country last July. Ireland must now follow suit.
“There is a strong precedent for doing so.
“The treatment of Irish and European citizens who were detained and publicly humiliated should have repercussions.
“This is about sending a message to Israel, to Europe and to the wider world about where Ireland stands and what we stand for ahead of the European Presidency.
Deputy McGreehan added that United Kingdom along with Norway, Australia, New Zealand and Canada have already imposed sanctions on Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich over allegations of inciting violence against Palestinians.
She said that Smotrich should also be considered for a ban given reports that he lives in an illegal settlement in the occupied West Bank, has supported the expansion of settlements and has advocated for the annexation of the territory.
“This is a small but impactful action and there is no reason Ireland cannot take it given that many of our European partners have already done so.”
For further information, reach out to Erin McGreehan.
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