Drogheda motion sparks calls for ‘Apartheid Free Zone’ awareness campaign

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

The ‘Drogheda Stands with Palestine’ group welcomed a motion brought forward by Mayor Michelle Hall to a Drogheda Borough District meeting, where councillors considered designating the town as an ‘Apartheid Free Zone’.

The advocacy group said the decision “underscores Drogheda's commitment to human rights and shows solidarity with the Palestinian people.”

Spokesman Paddy Matthews welcomed the support shown for the motion, adding: “The people of Drogheda have been holding vigils and fundraisers for Gaza for over two years now, and it’s very heartening to see local government taking a strong stand on this issue at a time when it’s getting less media attention than before.”

Mayor Michelle Hall highlighted the ongoing atrocities and human rights abuses being committed by the Israeli government against Palestinians and said that “Making Drogheda an Apartheid Free Zone is a way to try to help stop this”.

In a video message, she urged the people of Drogheda to support the initiative, saying “I am asking you, and your organisation, whether a business, a sports club, a shop, to look and think, does this product or company support Israel?”

Over 300 Irish businesses have already declared themselves ‘an ‘Apartheid Free Zone’ (AFZ) including several in Drogheda.

The campaign is part of the non-violent global ‘Boycott Divest and Sanction’ (BDS) movement, initiated by Palestinian civil society. Its aim is to pressure Israel to end its oppression and comply with International law.

"By declaring their shops, restaurants, businesses, community organisations, trade unions, and other groups as Apartheid Free Zones, individuals and local councils can actively support the Palestinian people and contribute to a global movement for justice and equality. It's easier than you think to get started,” said Paddy Matthews.

He added: “The first step is just making the commitment. Then you can learn more about what Israeli goods and services to avoid by looking at the list on the BDS website. It’s easy to register your organisation at www.apartheidfree.ie and I'd encourage everyone to download the ‘Boycat ‘or ‘No Thanks’ app on your phone to scan products as you shop.”

‘Drogheda Stands with Palestine’ will be rolling out a public awareness campaign over the coming months to help realise the Mayor's vision of an ‘Apartheid Free Drogheda.’