Mayor of Galway, Collette Connolly, has appealed to the people of the city and county to embrace the Christmas spirit and spare a thought for the men and women of Gaza who are living traumatic lives trapped by forces beyond their control.
Launching Trócaire’s Gifts of Love at the Galway Christmas market, Mayor Connolly said the gifts will help to support those who are most vulnerable this Christmas.
“Palestinians have suffered for too long and it is very important that we assist the people of Gaza who are living in extremely challenging conditions,” Mayor Connolly said.
Trócaire’s Gifts of Love include a range of sustainable and ethical gifts from emergency water supplies (€20 ) to mental health support for women and children traumatised by the ongoing conflict in Gaza (€50 ).
Amanie Issa, who is originally from Bethlehem and is a student in Galway, urged the people of Galway to address the mental health of the people of Gaza.
Speaking at the launch of Trócaire’s Gifts of Love, Amanie said: “The occupation is not only physical impacts of conflict but also about the mental and psychological fallout. The world does not often see the impact of the occupation on the mental health and wellbeing of the Palestinians, and more awareness is needed.”
In 2021, the Gaza Strip saw crisis after crisis due to the longstanding blockade, recurrent hostilities, and the impact of Covid-19 on one of the most densely populated places in the world. The situation remains dire, and it is women and girls who continue to bear the brunt of these hostilities facing violence, discrimination, poverty, and trauma – every single day.
Trócaire volunteer, Bertie O’hAinmhire, said that the reality is that most people in Gaza are “trapped”.
“They cannot leave this small area about the size of Co Louth to access healthcare or education. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is now extremely difficult with over half the population facing unemployment and a lack of access to supplies like water and medicine. I would urge the people of Galway to spare a thought this Christmas for the people of Gaza and to donate what you can to Trócaire’s Christmas appeal”.
You can provide a lifeline to the women of Gaza this Christmas by supporting Trócaire’s appeal. The gifts can be purchased online at trocaire.org/gifts or by calling 1850 408 408.
