We stand with the global mobilisations calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and for Israel to comply with International Law. We are horrified at the relentless attacks on the civilian population of Gaza where one child is being killed every 10 minutes.

Our community in Dún Laoghaire Rathdown has strong links with the people of Palestine and Gaza. The U14’s Al Helal football club visited Ballybrack in 2018. One of our local Councillors, Hugh Lewis was on the freedom flotilla to Gaza in 2011.

We know from history that people have the power to stop human rights violations and end apartheid. Boycott was an effective tool that helped to end the apartheid regime in South Africa.Therefore, we call on our local government in Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, to formally sign up to the international Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) campaign.

The BDS campaign is a non-violent, grassroots movement that aims to pressure Israel to comply with international law and respect the rights of Palestinians. It calls for three main actions: boycotting Israeli goods and services produced in illegal settlements, divesting from companies complicit in human rights violations, and imposing sanctions on Israel until it respects the rights of Palestinians.

We call on our  local council to follow the lead of Dublin City Council  to stand up for the people of Palestine  and to formally support the BDS campaign.

In doing so Council commits to - 

1. Upholding Human Rights: The BDS campaign is rooted in the principles of human rights, justice, and equality. It seeks to address the ongoing violations of Palestinian human rights, including land confiscation, home demolitions, and restrictions on movement, among others. By supporting BDS, our local council can demonstrate its commitment to upholding these fundamental values.

2. Promoting Peaceful Solutions: The BDS campaign advocates for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on international law and the principles of justice. By endorsing BDS, our local council can contribute to the promotion of a just resolution to the conflict.

3. Encouraging Corporate Responsibility: Supporting the BDS campaign sends a strong message to companies that profit from or contribute to human rights abuses. It encourages them to reassess their involvement and take steps towards corporate responsibility. Our local council can play a vital role in promoting ethical business practices and ensuring that our community does not support companies involved in human rights violations.

4..Aligning with International Consensus: The BDS campaign has gained significant support worldwide, including from prominent human rights organizations, religious groups, and civil society organizations. By endorsing BDS, our local council can align itself with the growing international consensus on the need for justice and equality in the Israeli-Palestinian context. 

We ask that our Council  take the following actions.

1. Pass a resolution officially supporting the BDS campaign and its goals.
2. Review and revise procurement policies to ensure that the council does not purchase goods or services from companies involved in human rights violations.
3. Encourage local businesses and residents to consider ethical consumer choices by providing information and resources on BDS.

By supporting the BDS campaign, our Local Council can contribute to a just and peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, promote human rights, and uphold the values of our community.

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