Fast-track Gaza kids

Government urged to process visas for Palestinian children

- BY CATE MCCURRY

THE Government has been urged to fast-track visa applications for Palestinian kids who are due to come to Ireland for medical treatment and a historic hurling trip.

GAA Palestine demanded immediate action on the paperwork for their planned visit.

Children from the territory's first club were set to tour Ireland from July 18 to August 1 in a landmark visit.

Up to 33 kids and 14 adult mentors from the Moataz Sarsour GAA Club - the first officially recognised GAA club in Palestine - are due to travel.

A total of 152 families are set to host the touring party throughout Ireland.

A GAA Palestine spokesman said: “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.”