Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow, John Brady has welcomed news that the Powerscourt Hotel will no longer host a Peter Thiel backed conference, describing it as the right decision while reiterating that the event should not be taking place anywhere in Ireland.
The Dialog conference had been due to take place at the hotel this August, with some of the world’s wealthiest and most influential figures due to meet behind closed doors.
Teachta Brady said:
“I welcome news that the Powerscourt Hotel will no longer host the Dialog conference, backed by billionaire Peter Thiel.
“This is the right decision.
“In truth, this conference should never have been scheduled in the first place and should not 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 would be entirely inappropriate for Ireland to host an exclusive gathering associated with an individual and a company so closely linked to the genocide in Gaza, regardless of the venue.
“The Government should also clarify whether any Ministers had been invited to attend this conference, whether any state agencies were involved in its planning, and what their position will be if organisers seek to relocate the event within the State.
“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