Higgins: Israeli ambassador 'irresponsible' in claims about level of antisemitism in Ireland

President Michael D Higgins said: 'I don't think it is helpful if people representing the Jewish state seek to encourage fear where it doesn't exist by saying to people: 'All of us now and anyone of Jewish faith must feel afraid', that is grossly irresponsible.' Picture: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

President Michael D Higgins has denounced as "irresponsible" claims made by the Israeli ambassador about the level of antisemitism in Ireland.

Encouraging fear amongst the Jewish community in Ireland is "deeply irresponsible" and is simply a "PR exercise" by an administration that is guilty of breaching international law in Gaza, the President has told the Irish Examiner.