Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow John Brady has said that a conference backed by billionaire Peter Thiel should not be permitted to go ahead in Ireland given the involvement of Thiel’s company, Palantir, in facilitating Israel's genocide in Gaza.
Teachta Brady said:
“Reports indicate that the Dialog conference, backed by Peter Thiel, is due to take place at the Powerscourt Hotel in Wicklow this August, with some of the world's wealthiest and most influential figures due to meet behind closed doors.
“I do not believe this conference should be taking place anywhere in Ireland.
“Peter Thiel is the co-founder of Palantir, a company that has been central to facilitating Israel’s genocide in Gaza.
“A UN Human rights report stated that Palantir has provided defence infrastructure, military software, and its Artificial Intelligence, which allows automated decision-making.
“They are using AI to automate the slaughter of Palestinians.
“In the middle of the genocide, Palantir also announced a new strategic partnership with Israel, and the company's leadership has openly defended its role in supporting the Israeli military.
“These are not actions that should be ignored or brushed aside.
“The Irish people have consistently stood in solidarity with the Palestinian people and communities right across the country have demanded meaningful action.
“Against that backdrop, it is entirely inappropriate that Ireland would host an exclusive gathering associated with an individual and a company so closely linked to the genocide in Gaza.
“The Government must also urgently clarify whether any Ministers have been invited to attend this conference, whether any State agencies have been involved in the planning, and whether Irish taxpayers will be expected to cover any security or associated costs.
“The Government should make it crystal clear that Ireland is not a venue for events connected to those profiting from the genocide in Gaza.”
ENDS