Protest in Dublin Demands Urgent Evacuation of Gazan Families

A protest took place outside the Department of Health in Dublin on March 15, 2024, where demonstrators called for immediate action to evacuate parents and siblings of Gazan children currently receiving medical treatment in Ireland. The gathering included a diverse group of Irish artists, healthcare professionals, students, and members of organizations such as Pals for Palestine and Mothers Against Genocide.

Participants urged the Departments of Health, Justice, and Foreign Affairs to collaborate on implementing an emergency protocol aimed at bringing 26 family members from Gaza to Ireland. Although the Irish government has pledged support for their evacuation, protesters highlighted that the process has been “dangerously and agonisingly slow.” They expressed concern that the children already in Ireland risk losing more family members to ongoing violence in Gaza, including threats from bombs, sniping, shrapnel, and starvation.

Among those who spoke at the protest was renowned singer Mary Black, who shared her distress over the situation. “As a mother and a grandmother, I am distraught for the Palestinian mothers here looking after their sick and injured children, while terrified for the fate of their other children stuck in Gaza,” she stated. Black emphasized the urgency for the government to act swiftly to ensure the safety of these children.

Additionally, musician Fiachna Ó Braonáin performed and voiced his support during the demonstration. He expressed deep empathy for the fathers and children trapped in Gaza, saying, “This is a life-or-death situation. We need action now! There is no time to lose.”

The group underscored that out of the 26 individuals awaiting evacuation, nine are children under the age of 18. This includes two eight-year-olds, one nine-year-old, a twelve-year-old, two thirteen-year-olds, a fourteen-year-old, a fifteen-year-old, and a sixteen-year-old. Seven of the individuals are adult dependent children, while nine are parents.

The protest underscores a growing sense of urgency regarding the humanitarian crisis faced by families in Gaza and the immediate need for international support to facilitate their safety. As the situation in the region continues to deteriorate, advocates are calling for decisive action to protect those most vulnerable.