AG Issues Fresh Advice on Occupied Territories Bill

The Attorney General has advised the Irish Government that there are strong legal grounds to reconsider the Occupied Territories Bill, which would ban trade with Israel's illegal settlements.

Following this advice, Taoiseach Simon Harris has confirmed that Ireland will move forward on the issue, even without waiting for consensus from other European countries.

Harris, speaking outside Government Buildings, stressed that Ireland is ready to act independently.

"If there's more Ireland can do, Ireland will absolutely not be found wanting," he said, adding that he hopes his government will make progress on the matter.

The Taoiseach also revealed ongoing discussions with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, with both leaders urging the European Council to take a firmer stance on suspending trade with Israel until a ceasefire is in place and the violence ends.