Ireland to Review Control of Economic Activity Bill Amid Trade Ban Threats
Ireland is set to review and make amendments to its Control of Economic Activity Bill of 2018, also known as the Occupied Territories Bill. This bill has the potential to impose a trade ban on Israel, a move that has sparked controversy and debate.
In an exclusive interview with the Mail & Guardian, Irish ambassador to South Africa Austin Gormley discussed Ireland’s role in South Africa as the two countries celebrate 30 years of diplomatic relations. Gormley explained that the amendments to the bill would focus solely on the occupied territories, emphasizing a policy of differentiation between the State of Israel and the territories illegally occupied by Israel.
However, Gormley noted that the finalization of the bill would depend on the outcome of Ireland’s general elections on 29 November. He stated, “It’ll be a decision for the next government to decide on the course of action for bringing the Bill forward.”
Recently, Ireland announced its intervention in South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ, citing violations of international law. South Africa had filed a case against Israel, accusing the country of breaching the 1948 UN Genocide Convention during the war in Gaza, a claim strongly denied by Israel.
Ireland joins several other nations in supporting South Africa’s case, including Spain, Bolivia, Colombia, Mexico, Turkey, Chile, and Libya. Ireland has also confirmed the appointment of a full Palestinian ambassador after formally recognizing a Palestinian state in May.
Gormley highlighted Ireland’s understanding of apartheid rule due to its own history. Ireland had been vocal in opposing the apartheid regime in South Africa since the 1960s and awarded Nelson Mandela the Freedom of the City of Dublin in 1988, a gesture of solidarity that Mandela acknowledged upon his release in 1990.
Ireland’s decision to establish diplomatic relations with South Africa later than other European countries was a deliberate move to ensure a smooth transition away from apartheid. Since then, Ireland has focused on advancing trade and economic relations in Southern Africa, with South Africa being the first sub-Saharan African country where Enterprise Ireland set up an office.
Trade between Ireland and South Africa has seen significant growth, with Irish goods exports to South Africa increasing by 25% and South African goods exports to Ireland doubling in recent years. Irish companies have established a strong presence in South Africa, employing more than 12,500 people and engaging in various sectors such as insurance, financial, and computer services.
Despite changes in government, bilateral agreements between Ireland and South Africa remain strong, based on shared values and interests. Irish companies view South Africa as a strategic base for expanding into the rest of Africa, particularly with the new government’s focus on economic reform and growth-promoting initiatives.
Overall, the Irish community in South Africa continues to grow, reflecting the deepening ties between the two nations. Ireland and South Africa have a strong connection, with about 40,000 Irish citizens living in the country. These citizens are supported by active diaspora networks such as the Irish-South African Association and Business Ireland South Africa, which are backed by the Government of Ireland Emigrant Support Programme.
Recently, the Irish government announced that South African and Botswana passport holders would now require visas to enter Ireland. Ambassador Sean Gormley defended this decision, citing the need to align with the UK’s visa regime to protect the common travel area between the two countries. He also mentioned the increase in forged South African passports as a reason for the new visa requirements.
Despite protests in Ireland against asylum seekers and migrants, Ambassador Gormley reassured that Ireland is welcoming to migrants. He expressed optimism about the future relations between South Africa and Ireland, highlighting educational programs like the Irish Tech Challenge South Africa and cultural initiatives such as the Maxeke-Robinson Studies Chair.
Ambassador Gormley also emphasized Ireland’s commitment to the European Union, stating that they are in no rush to leave the EU due to the deep cooperation between member states. This cooperation has positively influenced peace and security in the region, and Ireland values its voice at the table and access to a wider market.
In conclusion, the relationship between Ireland and South Africa is multifaceted and continues to grow through various programs and initiatives. Despite challenges such as the new visa requirements, both countries are committed to maintaining strong ties and promoting mutual respect and understanding.
