Department of Justice urged to process GAA Palestine visas for ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ hurling trip

THE DEPARTMENT of Justice has been urged to process visa applications for Palestinian kids due to travel to Ireland next Wednesday.

GAA Palestine has organised a two-week tour of Ireland for 33 children aged between nine and 16, along with 14 adults.

But, just before the West Bank group submitted their applications, the estimate for turnaround time jumped from four to eight weeks.

And there is still no sign of them getting the necessary documentation to travel.

Founder and Chairperson of GAA Palestine Stephen Redmond said: “The lack of clarity and urgent communication from the Department of Justice is deeply concerning.

“Our volunteers, children, and families are eagerly awaiting their visas, and any further delay jeopardises this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to foster understanding and cultural exchange through sport.

“We call on the department to act swiftly and transparently to ensure these visas are processed without delay, so our young participants can experience the warmth and hospitality of Ireland as planned and give these young players two weeks of respite that they truly deserve.”

The delay has already led to the cancellation of plans to attend events hosted by clubs in Derry and Belfast because that would require them to obtain a separate visa to enter Northern Ireland.

And there is understandable concern about the group being able to travel to Ireland at all because of the hold-up which is also reported to be affecting those due to come here for medical treatment.

A statement said: “GAA Palestine demands immediate action and transparency from the Department of Justice regarding the pending visa applications currently under review.

“Despite numerous inquiries, the department has refused to provide any update or timeline, leaving volunteers, host families, children and coaches in limbo as critical deadlines approach.

“The lack of communication and accountability is unacceptable. The delay threatens to undermine our plans and the opportunities these visas are meant to facilitate.

“We call on the Department of Justice to prioritise this matter and deliver the necessary information without further delay.

“We remind the Department of Justice that immediate processing of visas is essential to ensure passports and travel documents can return to the travelling party in the West Bank before they depart on July 16.”

Former Dublin footballer Michael Darragh MacAuley added: “In the midst of unimaginable pain and suffering these children have been offered hope through the power of sport.

“GAA is all about community and looking after one another. GAA Palestine epitomises that caring ethos for others.

“I really hope common sense prevails and these young players can get the chance to visit Ireland and enjoy their childhoods again.”