Children are seen among the rubble in Khan Yunis, Gaza. Photo: Abed Rahim Khatib/Anadolu via Getty.
Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has written to the Taoiseach Simon Harris to ask him to work with Opposition parties to get the Occupied Territories Bill passed before the Dáil dissolves for the upcoming general election.
The Bill was first tabled by Independent Senator Frances Black in 2018.
Earlier this week, Tánaiste Micheál Martin said it would be “challenging” to have the Bill passed in the lifetime of this Dáil due to a number of amendments that were needed.
“It will need substantive amendments,” the Tánaiste said.
“The significant point is the government isn’t saying it’s against progressing this. The government is actively seeking a pathway to progress,” he added.
Now, Ms McDonald has written to Taoiseach Simon Harris to ensure the Bill will be passed before the country goes to the polls.
“The people of Gaza cannot wait one moment longer. Israel must face the strongest of sanctions for the genocide that is unfolding,” Ms McDonald said.
“I have written to An Taoiseach Simon Harris to ask him to work with the Opposition to ensure that the Occupied Territories Bill can pass into law before the election is called,” she added.
“It is unconscionable to ask the people of Gaza to wait even one moment longer. The genocide is continuing, and Israel is being allowed to act with impunity. A ceasefire will only happen if Israel faces consequences for their actions.”
The Dáil is now on recess for a week, however, Ms McDonald has asked that the Foreign Affairs and Defence committee convene to progress the bill.
“I have requested that the Select Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence be convened next week and for the government to allow this legislation to be swiftly brought to Committee Stage, so that all remaining stages can be passed before the Dáil is dissolved ahead of the next general election,” Ms McDonald said.
