Calls for Conference Backed By US Billionaire Peter Thiel To Be Blocked From Wicklow

Wicklow TD says Ireland should not host events connected to those profiting from the genocide in Gaza.

A Wicklow TD has called on the Government to prevent a high-profile international conference reportedly due to take place in County Wicklow later this summer, citing concerns over the involvement of US billionaire Peter Thiel and his technology company, Palantir.

The Sinn Féin TD John Brady said the planned Dialog conference, which is scheduled to be held at the Powerscourt Hotel in Enniskerry in August, should not be allowed to proceed in Ireland.

Deputy Brady said Peter Thiel, a co-founder of data analytics and artificial intelligence company Palantir, is closely associated with Israel's military operations in Gaza through the firm's technology and defence contracts.

He pointed to reports and findings from international human rights organisations which state that Palantir has supplied military software, artificial intelligence systems and defence infrastructure to Israel.

Deputy Brady claimed this technology has played a role in Israel's military campaign in Gaza, which he described as a genocide.

"The Irish people have consistently stood in solidarity with the Palestinian people," Brady said.

"Against that backdrop, it is entirely inappropriate that Ireland would host an exclusive gathering associated with an individual and a company so closely linked to the genocide in Gaza."

The Wicklow TD is also seeking clarification from Government on whether any ministers have been invited to attend the event, whether state agencies have been involved in organising it, and whether public funds could be used to cover security or other associated costs.

The conference is expected to attract some of the world's most influential figures from business, technology and politics, with attendees meeting behind closed doors at the luxury Wicklow venue.

Palantir, founded by Mr. Thiel has “complicity in apartheid Israel's war crimes and Gaza genocide is evident in its unwavering, ongoing technological and ideological support for the Israeli military,” according to the BDS Movement.

Deputy Brady said the Government should make it clear that Ireland is "not a venue for events connected to those profiting from the genocide in Gaza."

In a statement issued to East Coast FM this evening, Powerscourt Estate has advised that Powerscourt Hotel is separately owned and operated by the MHL Hotel Group. It goes on to confirm:

"The Estate wish to unreservedly state that if it was within their remit they would cancel the event planned. However, as they have a legally binding lease with MHL Hotels this is not possible."

And further advises:

"Powerscourt Estate are currently taking legal advice as to whether or not they can affect the planned event. No further comment will be made at this time."