Controversy Over Social Democrats TD’s Links to Israeli-Associated Firm Sparks Political Fallout
Dublin: Ireland remains at the forefront of European countries known for its strong pro-Palestinian stance, often portraying Israel as its principal adversary. Within this context, political figures and media outlets are often aligned in presenting critical narratives against Israel. The national broadcaster, RTÉ, has faced criticism for what some consider a one-sided representation, relying heavily on Palestinian and activist media sources for news feeds.
TD Eoin Hayes Expelled from Social Democrats Over Links to Israeli-Associated Firm
The Social Democrats have expelled Eoin Hayes, TD for Dublin Bay South, following revelations about his prior connections to a U.S. software company, Palantir Technologies, which has contracts with the Israeli military. Deputy Party Leader Sian O’Callaghan announced the decision during a press conference, stating that the issue was serious enough to warrant immediate action.
Hayes, who was elected as a Dublin City Councillor before becoming a TD, initially informed the party that he had sold all his shares in Palantir before entering politics. However, subsequent investigations revealed discrepancies in his account. Hayes sold 7,000 shares in the company in July 2024, netting €19,900. He later admitted to an administrative error that caused confusion over the timing of the sale, as the forms incorrectly recorded the sale date as June 2024.
O’Callaghan described the revelations as a breach of trust and transparency, critical to the party’s values. The Social Democrats, known for their strong pro-Palestinian stance, acted swiftly, particularly as the issue came to light following public scrutiny.
Sinn Féin has called for Hayes to resign as a TD, arguing that had the public been aware of his Israeli-linked shareholdings prior to the election, the outcome in Dublin Bay South might have been different. Sinn Féin TD Chris Andrews claimed that the seat would likely have remained with Sinn Féin under such circumstances.
Meanwhile, Hayes expressed regret for what he called an unintentional mistake but insisted he would remain in the Dáil as an independent. He acknowledged the frustration of his constituents and the party, stating, “I deeply regret letting the party and the people down.”
Hayes clarified that his connection to Palantir Technologies dated back to a decade ago when he worked in the company’s R&D and IT departments. The shares in question were part of his compensation and were sold earlier this year, albeit after delays due to administrative hurdles. He maintained that he was unaware of the company’s ongoing contracts with the Israeli military at the time.
The Social Democrats, widely recognised as one of Ireland’s most pro-Palestinian parties, have faced internal challenges over candidates’ histories in the past. Earlier this year, the party dropped Orly Degani, a local election candidate in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, over similar concerns.
Hayes expressed gratitude for the messages of support he has received from constituents and emphasised his commitment to the ideals of the Social Democrats, even as he now serves as an independent TD.
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