Rory Hearne (Dublin North-West, Social Democrats)

In many ways, our words have lost meaning. The words we speak include "genocide". Genocide is ongoing right now in Gaza. The word "genocide" has almost lost its meaning because we have all watched it live-streamed on our phones and have seen thousands and thousands of people murdered by Israel, yet what has been done? The word "genocide" has lost meaning for the people of Gaza.

Our hearts are broken for the people of Gaza. In fact, the very souls of all of us have been hollowed by the murder of 20,000 children. Our eyes are burned by the images of fathers holding lifeless daughters and sons and daughters and sons lying beside lifeless fathers and mothers. How have we let this happen? How have we let these children be bombed in shelters, schools and tents? How have we let their beautiful laughs be silenced forever? How do we let this genocide continue?

Our governments use strong words to condemn Israel, but the words are empty without real action. Ordinary people across the world have bravely protested. They are in the Global Sumud Flotilla, holding our hearts and hopes for peace, our hopes that the blockade will be broken and humanitarian aid delivered. These ordinary people are taking the action our governments should. I call on the Irish Government and governments across Europe to protect them and protect the innocent children of Gaza and the people in the West Bank. I plead with the Government to implement the occupied territories Bill and put sanctions on Israel anois.

It is upsetting, and I apologise for getting upset, but it is hard to really talk about this without talking about the actual people who are dying and being murdered every day. All of us need to show our humanity and reflect on what is going on, a genocide right now while we all stand and watch.

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