Charles Ward (Donegal, 100% Redress Party) | Oireachtas source

I fully support the motion and its call to progress the occupied territories Bill and ban all trade with Israelis' illegal settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories. The Bill has been blocked for nearly seven years. In that time, tens of thousands of Palestinian lives have been lost. More than 2 million people have been forcibly displaced. Many Palestinians face life-changing injuries. Thousands of Palestinian children have been murdered and have died due to hunger, lack of shelter, medication and hospital facilities, and the complete destruction of their living areas. It is disgusting what has gone on.

Israel is guilty of war crimes and it must be held accountable. Yet, we continue to trade with it. The illegal Israeli settlements make that country financially viable while the Palestinians starve to death. Words are not enough. I ask the Government not to backtrack on its election promise on the occupied territories Bill. We cannot dilute or delay legislation any longer. We must respect international law. We must take a stand and hold Israel accountable for its war crimes. We must support the people of Palestine and their need. Now is the time. The Government must fulfil its promise and pass the occupied territories Bill.

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