Mayor of Waterford: “Despite people talking about ceasefires, the genocide is still going on”

The Mayor of Waterford spoke out strongly against the ongoing genocide in Gaza at a recent launch of a mural in Waterford.

Waterford Walls has teamed up with the Waterford – Ramallah Twinning Committee. A new mural by Edinburgh artist Shona Hardie was unveiled on Spring Garden Alley last weekend.

The mural proudly features Palestinian boxer Wasim Abusal, who competed at the Paris Olympics in 2024 and visited Waterford earlier this year as part of a delegation from members of El Barrio Gym in Waterford’s twin city of Ramallah.

The mural also features Palestinian embroidery patterns, a hurley and outlines of boats – referencing the recent flotilla that attempted to break the blockade on Gaza.

Dominique Devoust made a video about the process of making the mural:

Although the committee has been active for years, it was officially recognised as a city twinning three years ago. Politicians, community activists, teachers and sports club leaders all make up the committee.

David Rees, chairperson of the committee, said: “Waterford has long been a supporter of Palestine.

“Walls are a big part of life in Palestine. Walls are there to separate people. They separate people from their farms and olive trees."

Mayor Seamus Ryan, who is also a member of the committee, spoke at the event.

He said: “All over the world small groups like this are meeting. They are all coming together with the same message: we have had enough of the genocide.” He continued, “Despite people talking about ceasefires, the genocide is still going on.” He paraphrased the Palestinian Ambassador, Dr Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid, who has recently visited Waterford.

He said: “wherever you get the chance, always bring up the people of Palestine and their struggle.” He also announced that on 29 November, City Hall will fly the Palestine flag to mark International Day of Palestinian Solidarity.

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