Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 January 2014
41. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the case of a Palestinian teacher and non-violent political activist (details supplied) who has faced undue harassment from the Israeli forces, and has had to go into hiding out of fear; if he will raise the case with the Israeli authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55413/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am concerned at the continuing recourse on the part of the Israeli occupation authorities to the use of criminal charges, periods of detention, and interrogation, to harass and deter peaceful protesters and activists, and increasingly to blur the distinction between such legitimate activities and violent actions.
We have consistently conveyed these concerns to the Israeli authorities, both in general and in relation to specific cases, and will continue to do so.
In the case raised by the Deputy, the person involved was detained for a period last year, and released in July. No representations have been made to me concerning any further difficulties she has experienced, and Palestinian human rights and prisoners’ organisations with whom we have consulted are likewise unaware of such problems.
