Green Party Councillor Patrick Costello has today called on Minister Flanagan to show his support for a two state solution in the face of Israeli rejectionism, and to act boldly for peace. It was announced today that the Israeli Government are preventing Dr Mona El Farra, the projects director of the Middle East Children’s Alliance and Deputy Chair of the Red Crescent Society in Gaza, from travelling to the SIPTU conference on a Two State Solution.

 

This action comes in the wake of Prime Minister Netanyahu rejecting outright a two state solution during an election campaign that was built on fear, and a rejection of peace and international law. This latest action echoes the similar treatment of Dr. Mads Gilbert, who provided medical treatment to children in Gaza during the recent war, and his ban on returning to Gaza due to “security concerns”.

 

Green Party representative and former human rights observer in Palestine, Cllr Patrick Costello stated today: “For a two state solution we need just that - two states. If Minister Flanagan does support a two state solution he must immediately give full recognition to the State of Palestine. Despite the Oireachtas voting to support recognition of Palestine, it must be formally enacted by the Minister, who has thus far refused to specify when he will. 

 

"The Irish Government must also work at EU level for stronger action on the Palestinian issue, including a ban on the import of products from Israeli settlements that are a grave breach of international law. Minister Flanagan could send a strong message on this issue by calling for the lifting of Dr El Farra's travel ban, and I hope that he will." 

 

Article 49 of the Geneva convention bans population transfers into occupied areas, making Israel’s policy of colony building illegal under international law. Once built, the settlements act to further undermine other Palestinian rights in the occupied territories. 

 

Further details of Cllr. Patrick Costello’s work in Palestine available at:www.canalbank2westbank.com