Londonderry Mayor Defends US Trade Trip Meetings Amid Criticism

Londonderry’s mayor has dismissed objections concerning her meetings with pro-Israeli political figures during a recent trade delegation to the United States. Lilian Seenoi Barr stated that the purpose of the visit, which included encounters with New York congressman Tim Kennedy and Massachusetts governor Maura Healy, was focused on “economic engagement” rather than “political endorsement”. Nevertheless, several Derry City and Strabane District councillors contended that these meetings contradict the council’s established stance of backing a boycott of Israel. During a council meeting held on Wednesday, the SDLP mayor affirmed, “Our engagement in US was purely to advocate for our region, its people and its economic future.” She further elaborated, stating, “While our council has adopted policies in solidarity with Palestine including opposing investment tied to the arms trade or profiting from conflict there has never been a vote in this council to avoid engagement with politicians to promote economic growth for our city and region.” The council, located in the north west, formally endorsed a corporate policy supporting the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement in October 2016. The BDS movement advocates for a comprehensive boycott of Israel due to its policies concerning the Palestinians. Christopher Jackson of Sinn Féin, speaking at the Wednesday meeting, asserted that “support for the Palestinian people has been unwavering in this council chamber”. He added, “We feel it is not good enough that we show our support locally, we feel whatever platform we have we should use.” Councillor Shaun Harkin from People Before Profit indicated that the meetings had generated significant apprehension among local groups supporting Palestinians. He stated, “We have a BDS policy.” He further commented, “For me it is clear. I would not be standing with either of those US politicians who are backing slaughter.” Independent councillor Gary Donnelly suggested that the meetings implied the council was “not serious about BDS as a corporate position”. He also noted that the meetings had created a “palpable” feeling of anger in the north west region and urged the mayor to issue an apology. Ms. Seenoi Barr responded at the meeting, stating, “I don’t see anything to apologise for…” She mentioned her intention to meet with the local chapter of the Ireland-Palestine Solidarity Campaign, which has also voiced criticism regarding the meetings, later in the current week. Earlier in the year, Colum Eastwood, who was then the SDLP leader, opted not to participate in the White House’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations, citing the US stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict. The mayor informed councillors that the Foyle MP had “been right to do that”. She characterized the recent trade mission, which also involved delegates from Donegal County Council and the local chamber of commerce, as “different”. She asserted, “We were right to travel for economic development, that is our duty.. America is a critical partner when it comes to economic development…” Both the Ulster Unionist Party and the Democratic Unionist Party expressed gratitude to the mayor for her efforts in promoting the north west region during the US visit.