Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

In the spirit of Senator Black's remarks, this afternoon we gathered in the Mansion House to bid farewell to the Palestinian ambassador to Ireland, H. E. Ahmad Abdelrazek. He is retiring after six years of service in Ireland and 46 years' service to Palestine's diplomatic efforts around the world. This is a most important week for the Palestinian people, given the further devastation and injustice inflicted on them, not only by the remarks of the US Administration but by further violence from Israel. It is now crucially important that we pass the Control of Economic Activity (Occupied Territories) Bill through the Oireachtas. Ireland must also use its place in the EU to stand up for justice and international law.

The Finucane family have campaigned for truth and justice regarding the murder of their husband and father, Pat, for 30 years. They have gained international renown for their dignity and grace in the face of constant obstacles and barriers. They have support from across the political spectrum in these Houses, as well as the support of the Government in securing an inquiry into the murder of human rights lawyer, Pat Finucane. His son, John Finucane, is our first citizen in Belfast and he has been a fantastic example of the Good Friday Agreement generation. Despite being a victim of the conflict himself, he has shone as a beacon for a new Belfast and a new society that is peaceful, cohesive, and respectful. I do not expect colleagues to involve themselves in party political cheerleading for John or for our party, but it would be remiss of us not to stand firmly against the toxic, sectarian and vile campaign being led against him, not only in the constituency of North Belfast where he is seeking election, but throughout the Six Counties. As people who value the democratic and electoral process, and who think it a good thing that people put their names forward for election to represent the people, it is incumbent upon us to ensure that a clear message goes out from both these Houses and the Government that we continue to stand in solidarity with John and his family. We must stand with them and face down anyone who seeks to attack and retraumatise the Finucane family or broader victims across our society in the North, regardless of from where it is coming or at whom it is directed. It is incumbent on us to ensure that a clear message goes out of solidarity and support for John, his family, and by extension, the democratic and electoral process.