Harris tells Israeli PM that Ireland is repulsed by his actions 

Fine Gael leader Simon Harris speaking at the 82nd Fine Gael Ard Fheis at the University of Galway. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

The public has been repulsed by the actions of the Israeli government in Gaza, incoming Taoiseach Simon Harris has said.

Mr Harris said that Ireland stands ready to recognise the Palestinian state while calling for a two-state solution.

In his keynote speech at the Fine Gael Ard Fheis in Galway, the Fine Gael leader said the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened “before our eyes” and Ireland cannot stay silent on the actions of Israel.

“We condemn the massacre carried out by Hamas in October and again call for the release of all hostages,” Mr Harris said.

“But we cannot stay silent on the actions of Israel either. Reason has been replaced by revenge and by the bombing, maiming and death of children.” 

Mr Harris criticised the Israeli government for the lack of aid being allowed to enter Gaza, describing it as a famine.

“Anyone who can countenance deliberate starvation has lost their humanity,” he said.

“Prime minister Netanyahu, the Irish people could not be clearer. We are repulsed by your actions. Ceasefire now and let the aid flow safely.”

Mr Harris received a standing ovation from the crowd after calling out the actions of the Israeli government.

Meanwhile, the Fine Gael leader also said that he would seek to bring forward a package of supports for businesses and that he has heard their concerns “loud and clear”.

“I know you are hurting. I understand how hard it is to absorb increased costs especially when it seems like everything is coming at you at once,” Mr Harris said.

“Under my leadership, Fine Gael will introduce a package to support businesses to make sure you thrive and prosper."

On housing, Mr Harris also pledged that the Government would build more than 250,000 houses over the next five years and that he wants to see the renters tax credit increased to €1,000 a year.

He said the ongoing waiver of development levies is working and that is making it “cheaper to build and cheaper to buy”, while confirming that the Government would further extend the help-to-buy scheme.

During his speech, Mr Harris also said it is his ambition to increase the cutoff point for the lower rate of income tax to €50,000, saying that he will outline a five-year tax strategy later this year.

“I believe it is unfair that people on an average wage have to pay the higher rate of income tax. So tonight, I am restating my ambition that nobody earning below €50,000 should pay the higher rate of income tax.” 

Addressing issues around law and order, Mr Harris said he wants to introduce fast-tracked legislation to “give judges new powers to make sure heinous criminals serve long sentences before they are even considered for release”.

He referenced the Dublin riots in November, saying that he would be convening a Dublin City Centre taskforce when he takes up the Taoiseach’s office next week.

There was also criticism of Sinn Féin in the new Fine Gael leader's speech, with Mr Harris saying that the main opposition party is only opportunist.

“Sinn Féin promises change. What they mean is, they will change their minds at every chance,” he said.

“A party which claims to be on the side of the gardaí but honours their killers and collects them from the prison gates,” he said.