A MOTION at Belfast City Council calling for urgent action to secure the entry of three purpose-built mobile maternity units into Gaza has been passed despite Unionist opposition.
The motion called for representations to the Irish and British Governments and relevant international bodies to help secure the immediate and unrestricted entry of the units, which remain blocked from reaching Gaza.
The initiative has been led by John Hurson, with Palestine Aid Ireland facilitating the transfer of funds to Egypt to enable the three mobile maternity units to be built in Cairo. Fundraising efforts have been supported by Gaels Against Genocide and communities across Belfast and right across Ireland.
During the Council debate on Tuesday night the DUP and TUV sought to have the reference to genocide removed from Councillor Paul Doherty’s motion.
Councillor Doherty refused to accept the proposed change.
Speaking following the meeting, Councillor Doherty said: “Tonight Belfast sent a clear message of solidarity to the people of Gaza, and I want to thank councillors from across the chamber who supported this motion.
“The DUP and TUV asked me to remove the reference to genocide. I refused.
“I will not be told to dilute the truth of what is happening in Gaza. This is a genocide, and I will continue to call it what it is.
“We are witnessing mass killing, starvation, displacement and the destruction of essential healthcare. In the middle of all of this pregnant women are giving birth in horrific conditions and newborn babies desperately need medical care.
“Three purpose-built maternity units are ready to provide some of that care, yet Israel continues to block them from reaching Gaza.
“That is why this motion matters. It is not simply another statement of solidarity. It makes a specific demand for action from the Irish and British Governments and relevant international bodies to use every available avenue to help get these units into Gaza.
“I want to pay particular tribute to John Hurson, Palestine Aid Ireland, Gaels Against Genocide and everyone across Ireland who has worked relentlessly to make these units a reality.
“Passing this motion is not the end of the campaign. Belfast has added its voice, and now that must be followed by action from those with the political and diplomatic power to help remove the blockage.
“These units are ready. They can help save lives. Israel must stop blocking them. The message tonight from Belfast was loud and clear – let them in.”
Michael Doherty of Gaels Against Genocide, who addressed councillors alongside Aidan Thornbury, added: “A woman should not have to risk dying simply because she is giving birth during a war. Every day without functioning maternity services in Gaza creates the risk of preventable maternal and newborn deaths.”
Councillor Doherty said he will now follow up on the Council decision and press for the agreed representations to the Irish and British Governments and relevant international bodies to be acted upon as quickly as possible.
