Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 May 2024
87. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 72 of 7 March 2024, the details of his engagement to date both at bilateral level with his Israeli counterpart, and at EU level, with regard to the designation in October 2021, which remains in place, of six Palestinian human rights organisations as terrorist groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20841/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the context of the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory, Ireland remains fully committed to supporting and funding civil society organisations and human rights defenders on the ground as a key part of our support for the Palestinian people.
As I previously stated, Ireland repeatedly expressed serious concern on the matter of the designation of six Palestinian NGOs as terrorist organisations by Israel in October 2021, including in bilateral contacts with Israel. This decision included organisations in receipt of support from Irish Aid and the EU. As previously stated, no substantial information was received from Israel to justify reviewing our policy towards the six NGOs.
As noted previously, we have made clear to Israel, as well as in discussions with EU partners, that no evidence has been provided to support these claims and that Ireland's support, including financial support, to Palestinian civil society organisations and human rights defenders will continue.
