GAA PALESTINE are “outraged” after The Department of Justice failed to process visa applications for Palestinian kids that were due to travel to Ireland on Friday.
A two-week tour of Ireland for 33 children aged between nine and 16, along with 14 adults has now been dashed because the West Bank group do not have the necessary documentation to travel.
The group have lost a whopping €38,000 on flight tickets due to the fiasco, and GAA Palestine tonight voiced their immense frustration for all concerned.
A statement said: “GAA Palestine is profoundly disappointed and outraged by the Department of Justice’s refusal to facilitate our upcoming team trip to Ireland scheduled for 18th July.
“Despite our numerous appeals and attempts to engage, the department has dismissed our concerns and provided an appeals process that guarantees the trip cannot proceed within the timeframe required.
“GAA Palestine is bewildered as to why visas have been refused when all evidence suggests no grounds for rejection.
“The Irish Embassy in Tel Aviv’s insistence that flights be purchased prior to visa approval has resulted in a loss of €38,000 on non-refundable tickets.
“The dismissive attitude and lack of meaningful engagement from the Department of Justice have left us with no choice but to reconsider our plans.
“In response, we are actively exploring alternative locations for a Summer Camp to ensure our players can participate in meaningful sporting activities.
“We have received overwhelming support from Inter county GAA players eager to join and participate.
“It is deeply disappointing that common sense and fairness have been ignored.
“Our government’s decision to hinder our players’ travel is unjust and unacceptable.
“We call on the Irish authorities to reconsider their stance and facilitate the safe and fair travel of our team.”
GAA Palestine Administration of Gaelic Football, Hurling/Camogie, Handball & Rounders In Palestine (Non-Political Sports Group)[/caption]
