Waterford shows solidarity with peace activists

On Monday the 31st of May, on short notice - up to 80 activists gathered in Waterford City to demonstrate against the recent actions of the IDF against humanitarian workers. Sinn Féin Port Láirge and Ógra Shinn Féin Port Láirge were both represented, along with other groups including the Irish-Palestine Solidarity Campaign and the Workers Party.

Local Waterford Sinn Féin councillor, David Cullinane gave a powerful, and heartfelt speech condemning the recent Israeli actions, and illegal Israeli occupation & blockade of Gaza.


Speaking on behalf of Ógra Shinn Féin, Seán Ó Briain stated "The media spin is already established. Edited videos of attacks of IDF forces are already circulated the internet. Israel has yet to release an unedited video, which shows the entire operation from beginning to end. Up to 19 activists are reported to have died, while not one IDF soldier lost their life. Are we seriously to believe that Humanitarian workers attack IDF soldiers, without provocation? This operation, from beginning to end was illegal. Israeli forces had no jurisdiction in international waters, and did not have the legal right to board the vessel. All vessels were checked at port prior to embarking on their travels. The aid convoy was of no danger to Israel, and their over-reaction has justifiably received international condemnation."

"I want to make this very clear. Israel illegally boarded a vessel, destined to bring humanitarian aid to one of the world's must impoverished regions. They murdered up to 19 civilians, to defend their illegal blockade of Gaza. They then kidnapped everyone aboard the vessel, and forced them into Israeli territory - where they subsequently were illegally detained in camps. We must stand in solidarity with those who have been wronged."