Fine Gael suspends councillor after saying ‘US economy ruled by Jews’

Punam Rane.

Fine Gael has suspended a councillor from the party after she said the US economy was “ruled by the Jews”.

At a meeting of Dublin City Council last year, Fine Gael councillor Punam Rane said “the entire US economy is ruled by the Jews, by Israel”.

She later said on social media that she “completely” withdrew her comments, which were made during a city council meeting in relation to a motion on the Occupied Territories Bill.

Ms Rane added: “It was wrong and I fully apologise for it.” 

She has now been suspended from Fine Gael party rights and privileges for 18 months.

At the time of the initial remarks, Ronald S Lauder, president of the World Jewish Congress, heavily criticised Ms Rane.

The comments came as Fine Gael leader Simon Harris was due to meet then-US president Joe Biden.

Mr Harris, who was taoiseach at the time, described the statement by his party colleague as “absolutely offensive” and called for a “swift and robust” disciplinary process.

Asked about the matter during his visit to Washington DC in October, Mr Harris told reporters: “The comments were utterly wrong, absolutely offensive, entirely inappropriate and are fully condemned by me.” As first reported by The Journal, Fine Gael said its hearing committee determined that Ms Rane’s comments amount to misconduct.

It said she should be suspended from all rights and privileges of party membership for a period of 18 months.

A spokesperson for the party said: “Councillor Rane has also been requested to formally withdraw her comments in writing to the Lord Mayor, to include in that a repeat of her previous apology to members of the Jewish community, and to undergo appropriate training.” 

It is understood the determination cannot be appealed.

Ms Rane has been approached for comment.