THE OCCUPIED TERRITORIES Bill has been passed, clearing its way to be signed into law.

Once the Bill is enacted and commenced, the importation of goods originating in Israeli settlements into Ireland will be made an offence.

The long-awaited bill was first proposed by senator Frances Black in 2018.

Attempts to include a ban on trade in services have repeatedly failed to be added to the legislation and it has now passed with the focus on goods.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Helen McEntee welcomed the passing of the bill by the Seanad, completing its passage through the Oireachtas.

“Today marks an important step in reaffirming Ireland’s commitment to international law, human rights and a just and lasting peace based on a negotiated two-State solution,” McEntee said.

The Fine Gael minister thanked Black for her “unwavering commitment” to this issue over many years.

“Ireland’s position, and indeed that of the EU, is clear – settlements are illegal under international law and undermine the realisation of the two-State solution,” McEntee said.

Reaction

Some NGOs have on Wednesday criticised the focus of the bill on goods, with Trócaire saying that it “does not go far enough” in its current form.

Trócaire, which worked as a member of the Occupied Territories Bill coalition, pointed to an International Court of Justice decision that states must refrain from economic and commercial dealings that help sustain Israel’s unlawful occupation.

“Ireland’s own Department of Foreign Affairs has previously stated that a complete prohibition on trade with Israeli settlements is required,” the charity said.

The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission expressed “deep disappointment” following the bill’s passing.

While welcoming the enactment of legislation prohibiting the importation of goods from illegal settlements, the commission said the exclusion of services represents a significant missed opportunity to ensure Ireland fully complies with its obligations under international law.