Kilkenny groups marched together through Kilkenny City after news came through that the Gaza food aid flotilla was being attacked by Israeli forces as part of emergency protests across the country. Around 100 people gathered at very short notice outside James Stephens Barracks, with placards calling for an end to genocide, and supporting the peacekeeping role of the Irish Defence forces.
They marched past County Hall in strong winds and rain and on to the Parade, to applause from onlookers. Banners on the march included Kilkenny Community Palestine Solidarity Group, Labour, Sinn Fein and SIPTU, along with Irish and Palestinian flags The marchers called on the international community to “Get the Food in”, to impose sanctions, and to use every means to secure the release of 22 Irish citizens – and hundreds of people from across the world – seized illegally by the IDF from the flotilla along with all other prisoners.
Cllr. Sean O’Horgain, Labour Party, Kathleen Funchion, M.E.P., Sinn Fein, and Katharine Larkin, for Kilkenny Community Palestine Solidarity Group spoke on the need for urgent action by Government and the EU to block arms exports to Israel and condemned all attacks on civilians.
The gathering ended with a moving rendition of “the Lonely Boatman” on tin whistle, in tribute to the last small boats of the flotilla that were sailing towards Gaza, reaching sight of land.
All are welcome to join the weekly vigil supported by Kilkenny Community Palestine Solidarity Group at the Parade, 5.30 p.m. to 6.00 p.m. The vigil now has been held for over 100 weeks, continuously.
