Plans for Waterford to become twinned with the Palestinian city of Ramallah have been thrown up in the air following a meeting yesterday.
At the May Plenary meeting of Waterford City and County Council, councillors argued at length about the prospect of the twinning.
It had been anticipated that councillors would sign off on the matter, but it has now been deferred for a vote next month.
Differing viewpoints
Independent Councillor Joe Conway said any potential twinning needs to be approached with caution.
"I think it's very important that the council should approach it with their eyes open. The twinning with Ramallah is deeply problematic in many ways," he said.
"For one thing, I would say Ramallah is not democratic in any meaningful sense of the word."
The proposed twinning of Waterford with the Palestinian city of Ramallah now seems unlikely following a debate between councillors.
Councillors spoke both in favour of and against the planned twinning.
Sinn Féin in support of the twinning
Sinn Fein Councillor Conor McGuinness clashed with Independent Cllr Declan Clune, following the points raised by Cllr. Joe Conway.
"I'm not particularly happy with it, with respect to Councillor Conway. If I hadn't done my research, I would also be concerned."
The Sinn Féin councillor's points were supported by party colleague Pat Fitzgerald, who was angered at some of the points raised by other members.
"The Palestinian people have been discriminated against for decades and the West have turned a blind eye to it. They have been murdered, pushed off their land, their wells have been poisoned and now we are adding to that injury."
He added, "This is absolutely disgraceful."
The issue was adjourned for decision in June for the Plenary meeting.
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