Irish Parliament suspended as protesters call for sanctions on Israel
The Irish Parliament was suspended briefly after several protesters interrupted statements on Palestine to call for sanctions to be imposed on Israel.
The protesters in the public gallery chanted “sanctions now”, “stop arming Israel” and “close Shannon to the US military”.
One man held up a sign that said “divest”, while another person carried a large Palestinian flag.
We do welcome the fact that they've recognised Palestinian statehood, it is a welcome thing. But it really won't make any difference because Israel will not be brought to the negotiating table unless there's massive sanctions introduced against them
After being ushered out of the public gallery and out of the grounds of Leinster House, the protesters told the PA news agency that while they welcomed the recognition, they wanted Ireland to implement sanctions on Israel.
They also called for the enactment of the Occupied Territories Bill and the Settlements Divestment Bill.
