“Today is an important day for the people of Palestine and a proud day for Ireland,” said Fianna Fáil MEP, Billy Kelleher as the Irish Government confirmed it would recognise the State of Palestine on May 28th.

“Symbolism matters in politics and in diplomacy. There will be people who dismiss this action by the Irish Government, but it is an important statement of Ireland’s convictions and its independence as a sovereign nation.

“The Irish people have long held the cause and the plight of the Palestinian people close to their hearts. Our people don’t need to look too far back into our history to know what oppression looks and feels like.

Israeli Occupation of Palestine

“In 2018, I visited the West Bank. I saw what Israeli occupation looked like. It was and remains both an outrage and a violation of international law and morality.

“Ireland can rightly be proud of its decision today. I am proud of the role my party, and in particular the role of our party leader, and Tánaiste, Micheál Martin, has played in bringing this decision about.

“Israel has a right to exist and defend itself. However, it cannot have a veto over a future Two-State solution. Hamas is a terrorist organisation and must release all hostages. International law must be adhered to. These are all non-negotiable.

EU as Honest Broker

“For years, I have called for the EU to go back to being an honest broker in this conflict. The response of President Von Der Leyen last year was not acceptable. The EU must come to the table with solutions and not empty rhetoric. All EU member states should follow the lead of Ireland, Norway and Spain and recognise the State of Palestine.

“I look forward to Ireland continuing to lead on a European stage on the issue of a peaceful settlement between Palestine and Israel,” concluded Kelleher.