A contentious report proposing the renaming of Herzog Park in Dublin has been pulled from the agenda of a crucial city council meeting, averting a planned vote that had sparked significant political and diplomatic controversy.
Administrative Oversight Halts Renaming Process
The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Ray McAdam, confirmed that the council's chief executive, Richard Shakespeare, intends to withdraw the report. The reason given was that the legislation governing the renaming of place names had not been "fully commenced". This administrative issue meant councillors lacked sufficient information to make a proper decision on Monday.
Mr McAdam stated to RTE: "The reality is that the legislation pertaining to the renaming of place names has not been fully commenced. There is not sufficient information contained in both reports for elected members to make a considered decision."
High-Level Criticism and Accusations of Antisemitism
The proposal had drawn sharp criticism from the highest levels of Irish government. Taoiseach Micheal Martin labelled the plan as "divisive and wrong" and had publicly called for its withdrawal. He argued that it would erase the significant contribution of the Jewish community to Irish history, including their role in the War of Independence.
Mr Martin strongly asserted that the move was "a denial of our history and will without any doubt be seen as antisemitic." The Office of the President of Israel also expressed deep concern, with a statement on X from the office of Isaac Herzog—son of the park's namesake—calling the potential renaming a "shameful and disgraceful move."
Apology and Next Steps for the Council
In an official statement, Chief Executive Richard Shakespeare confirmed the report was "missing information for a valid resolution to be adopted." He announced the report would be withdrawn and the matter referred back to the commemorations and naming committee.
Mr Shakespeare issued an apology on behalf of the council's executive for the "administrative oversight." He also committed to a detailed review of the missteps, with a report to be furnished to the Lord Mayor and councillors. Despite the withdrawal, supporters of the renaming, such as People Before Profit councillor Conor Reddy, argued that criticism of the Israeli state should not be conflated with antisemitism.
