Fine Gael leader Simon Harris has acknowledged that the disciplinary process for a councillor who made an antisemitic remark took longer than he would have preferred, reports Breaking News.
Councillor Punam Rane was suspended from all Fine Gael party rights and privileges for 18 months earlier this week.
This followed an internal investigation into her comments during a Dublin City Council meeting last October, where she stated that “the entire US economy is ruled by the Jews, by Israel”, reports Breaking News.
Following the incident, she issued a statement on social media saying she “completely” withdrew the remarks made during the council meeting about the Occupied Territories Bill.
Ms Rane added: “It was wrong and I fully apologise for it,” reports Breaking News.
Mr Harris condemned the original comments at the time, describing them as “absolutely offensive” and calling for a “swift and robust” response.
Speaking on Friday, he said he welcomed the conclusion of the process regarding what he termed “utterly unacceptable” remarks.
He added: “I don’t want to overly comment on the process, because it was independent of me, other than to say that I believe it was appropriate that there was a significant sanction. The comments were unacceptable, and I’m pleased that our disciplinary structure has now concluded about that,” reports Breaking News.
When questioned about the length of time the process took, Mr Harris acknowledged: “It did take a little longer than I would have liked, but it is always important to get these things right in terms of due process.”
Following the original statement, Ronald S Lauder, president of the World Jewish Congress, strongly condemned Ms Rane’s remarks, reports Breaking News.
A Fine Gael spokesperson said: “Councillor Rane has also been requested to formally withdraw her comments in writing to the Lord Mayor, to include in that a repeat of her previous apology to members of the Jewish community, and to undergo appropriate training,” reports Breaking News.
It has been reported that this decision is final and cannot be appealed.
Ms Rane has been contacted for a response, reports Breaking News.
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