There has been international outcry following heightened violence in Palestine. Over the past number of days over 200 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, including at least 61 children, and more than 1,400 wounded. Saturday the 22nd was marked as a global day of protests to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people. With huge numbers gathering all across the country Carlow decided to mark the day with a banner drop over the bridge to the town park.
Speaking to the press Ned Byrne, chairman of the Carlow branch of the Irish Palestine Solidarity Campaign (IPSC) said “After days of violence thousands have been displaced and hundreds killed. The Israeli government’s response in the ongoing Gaza conflict is wholly disproportionate and directly resulting in the killing of these innocent civilians. Ireland has a long history of solidarity for the Palestinian people and Carlow is no different. We are marking the day and raising awareness about the on-going persecution and subjugation of the Palestinians. We are asking people to bring their flags, posters and of course, their masks. This will be a socially distanced event.”
People Before Profit Cllr Adrienne Wallace was down to support the banner drop. She said “Now is the time to expel the Israeli ambassador and pass the Occupied Territories Bill. Ireland should be taking the lead; we have a long history of colonial oppression ourselves and know how important international solidarity is. War crimes are being perpetrated; Israel is targeting schools, targeting hospitals and the only Covid centre. Illegal settlements and violence have been a very stark reality for generations of Palestinians – it’s time for real change.”