Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

The huge level of cross-party support for this Bill is a testament to the fact that it is not a radical ask. We are simply saying that if we know certain goods have been produced as a result of war crimes, we should not be trading in them. This is the bare minimum that should be expected of a country with a deep commitment to human rights. If not, there is a clear hypocrisy. How can we keep condemning the settlements as illegal, as a theft of land and resources and as a barrier to peace but happily trade in the proceeds of this crime? It is not acceptable and it is our duty, as legislators, to change it.

I thank the amazing groups of people who have worked so hard in support of this Bill. My God they have been absolutely amazing. People have been fundraising, holding public meetings and sending their support from all over the country. The people of Ireland are amazing and I am just blown away by the support. Bringing brave Palestinian farmers, Mona and Fayez, over to meet them in July was one of the best experiences I have ever had. There is nothing more inspiring than seeing solidarity in action. I recognise the years of work on this issue from SADAKA, particularly by Marie Crawley and Gerry Liston, without whom we would not have reached this point. They are two geniuses. I also recognise the fantastic supporting organisations Trócaire, Christian Aid, the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, the Global Legal Action Network and the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign, IPSC. The Palestinian ambassador is also here tonight and I thank him so much for all his support.

Ultimately I am pursuing this initiative because I want to see Ireland take a stronger lead on issues of human rights and social justice. I do not believe such stances hinder our international standing. I believe they greatly enhance it. I saw the impact of settlement expansion myself when I visited the West Bank earlier this year. I saw the restrictions on movement, the separate roads, the destruction of people's homes and the devastating human rights conditions, which are worsening daily. We cannot in good conscience look at this situation, the unforgiveable human cost and say that decades of empty condemnation are enough. It should summon in us a deep sense of injustice and anger that demands meaningful action against occupation.

Today marks only the halfway point. The Bill has been agreed by the Seanad and it now must be agreed by the Dáil. I am calling on all of those who have supported us so far, both the political parties and the amazing activists all over the country, to keep going with their backing. We can make this Bill law. Go raibh míle míle maith agaibh everybody. Thank you so much for all your support.