Sinn Féin Leader Mary Lou McDonald has written to An Taoiseach Simon Harris to ask him to work with the Opposition to ensure that the Occupied Territories Bill can pass into law before the election is called.

She said: “The people of Gaza cannot wait one moment longer. Israel must face the strongest of sanctions for the genocide that is unfolding.”

Ms McDonald said:

“I have written to An Taoiseach Simon Harris to ask him to work with the Opposition to ensure that the Occupied Territories Bill can pass into law before the election is called.

“It is unconscionable to ask the people of Gaza to wait even one moment longer. The genocide is continuing and Israel is being allowed to act with impunity. A ceasefire will only happen if Israel faces consequences for their actions.

“Therefore I have requested that the Select Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence be convened next week and for the government to allow this legislation to be swiftly brought to Committee Stage, so that all remaining stages can be passed before the Dáil is dissolved ahead of the next general election.”