Sarah Harte: Ministers must speak out against war on Gaza while visiting the US

Irish politicians must ask if they they are complicit in one of the worst catastrophes of this century

Bridget’s crosses were laid and candles were burnt in symbolic gestures of mourning, as scores of people attended the candlelit vigil for Gaza held in the Grand Parade, Cork on St Bridget’s day. The event was one of hundreds that took place around the country which place a special focus on the plight of women of Gaza. Picture: Chani Anderson

The rain had suddenly stopped. Last Saturday afternoon in Cork city the atmosphere was vibrant with people going about their weekend chores.

At around two o’clock on Grand Parade outside the Cork City library, three older men gathered around a large statue of the Virgin Mary, on a small table. She almost toppled, and one of the men moved to save her from a fall. It was a snapshot from another Ireland, and there was something quaint, oddly moving about the tableau.