Wexford Labour Representative Calls for Screening Process for Israeli Defence Force Members Entering Ireland

A Wexford Labour representative is renewing calls for the Government to introduce a screening process for members of the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) entering Ireland.

Damien Corish, who was recently elected Vice Chair of Labour Intercultural and also serves as Wexford Labour's Equality Officer, said a motion he proposed at the organisation's recent AGM seeking such a process was passed and will now be pursued further.

Corish said he remains dissatisfied with the Government's response to the issue, claiming he has yet to receive what he described as a proper reply from Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan regarding a letter requesting screening measures for individuals who may have committed alleged war crimes.

He also criticised the Government's approach to the Occupied Territories Bill, arguing that the proposed legislation should be extended to include services as well as goods.

Corish referenced comments by human rights lawyer Chris Sidoti, who has recommended that countries investigate Israeli Defence Force members who have served since October 2023, including dual nationals where appropriate.

He said Ireland has both a legal and moral obligation to uphold its international commitments, including the Geneva Conventions and the Immigration Act 2004.

Corish is calling for what he describes as strict screening, investigation and, where appropriate under Irish law, the exclusion of individuals suspected of involvement in war crimes. He said the measures would help reassure the public that Ireland's national security is being protected.

He also urged members of the public to contact the Minister for Justice to support the introduction of a screening process.