Bernard Joyce

I met with @SimonHarrisTD today on the Occupied Territories Bill. I've worked tirelessly on this issue since 2018, and finally, after seven years, I think we will see action. This is so important, and we can't waste any more time. We need to act with the urgency this moment demands - to stand firmly against the horrific war crimes being committed in Gaza and in the West Bank. Two key things matter now: getting this done quickly, and ensuring that the Bill is as strong as possible. That means a full ban on all trade with the illegal settlements, both physical goods (like fruit and veg) but also services (like Airbnb). This is crucial, and it's what the ICJ have stated is required. The Tánaiste has said today that he has no issue with including services, if we can get the legal detail right. I am absolutely certain that we can. I will be doing everything possible to make sure we focus on this issue in the FA Committee and get it right. We have a lot of work to do, but we've gotten to where we are because people all over Ireland have seen the injustice happening in Palestine and demanded action. We've been working on this for seven years, and we'll keep going until it's done. #PasstheOccupiedTerritoriesBill