Controversy Surrounds Higgins' Holocaust Day Address

The decision to invite President Michael D. Higgins as the keynote speaker at the upcoming Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration in Dublin has sparked controversy, particularly among leaders of the Irish Jewish community. Critics, including the Jewish Representative Council of Ireland and Holocaust Awareness Ireland, have expressed concerns that Higgins has overlooked antisemitism and made inappropriate comments about Israel, undermining the significance of the event. Jewish leaders argue that his presence could detract from the solemnity of the ceremony, especially this year, which marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. Some community members, including Holocaust survivor Tomi Reichental, may reconsider speaking if Higgins attends. Despite the backlash, organizers, including Holocaust Education Ireland, defend the invitation, emphasizing the event's inclusive purpose. The debate highlights ongoing tensions surrounding discussions of Israel and antisemitism within Ireland.