Urgent:

Department of Justice Must Provide Clear Status on Pending Visas for GAA Palestine Ireland Tour

GAA Palestine demands immediate action and transparency from the Department of Justice regarding the pending visa applications currently under review. Despite numerous inquiries, the department has refused to provide any update or timeline, leaving volunteers, host families, children and coaches in limbo as critical deadlines approach.

The lack of communication and accountability is unacceptable. The delay threatens to undermine our plans and the opportunities these visas are meant to facilitate. We call on the Department of Justice to prioritise this matter and deliver the necessary information without further delay.

Time Is Running Out — Action is Urgent

We remind the Department of Justice that immediate processing of visas is essential to ensure passports and travel documents can return to the travelling party in the West Bank before they depart on 16th July 2025.

Founder and Chairperson of GAA Palestine said:

“The lack of clarity and urgent communication from the Department of Justice is deeply concerning. Our volunteers, children, and families are eagerly awaiting their visas, and any further delay jeopardises this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to foster understanding and cultural exchange through sport. We call on the department to act swiftly and transparently to ensure these visas are processed without delay, so our young participants can experience the warmth and hospitality of Ireland as planned and give these young players two weeks of respite that they truly deserve.”

Former Dublin footballer Michael Darragh MacAuley, with eight All-Ireland medals, has been a long-term supporter of Palestine and advocates for the Irish government to take a stronger stance against Israeli human rights abuses said regarding the hold up on visas said, 

“In the midst of unimaginable pain and suffering these children have been offered hope through the power of sport. GAA is all about community and looking after one another. GAA Palestine epitomises that caring ethos for others and I really hope common sense prevails and these young players can get the chance to visit Ireland and enjoy their childhoods again.”

Note to Editor:

A total of 47 participants will embark on this memorable GAA Palestine tour of Ireland, including 33 children aged between 9 and 16 years. The tour promises a rich itinerary blending Irish culture, history, and sport, offering an unforgettable experience for all involved. A total of 152 families will be hosting the touring party throughout Ireland.

For further information or to arrange interviews, please contact:

Gill Waters, GAA Palestine Press Officer

Email: pressoffice@gaapalestine.com

Mob: +353 862 482 364