Eoin Hayes Rejoins Social Democrats After Suspension Over Shares

Eoin Hayes has been readmitted to the Social Democrats following an eight-month suspension related to inaccurate disclosures about his shareholdings in a company associated with the Israeli military. The suspension stemmed from Mr. Hayes’ failure to correctly communicate the timeline of his divestment from shares in Palantir Technologies, a firm that provides technology services to Israel’s military.

Mr. Hayes acknowledged that he should not have held the shares for as long as he did. In a gesture of accountability, he has donated the equivalent of €43,443 (approximately $51,000) to three humanitarian organizations that operate in Gaza, including UNRWA, UNICEF, and Doctors Without Borders. This amount corresponds to the increase in value of the shares he held during Israel’s military actions in the region.

The Dublin Bay South TD was suspended from the parliamentary party in December 2022, just a month after securing his position. Initially, he informed the media and his colleagues that he had divested his shares before taking office on Dublin City Council in June 2022. However, it was later revealed that he sold the shares in July 2023, post-election, for a pre-tax amount of €199,000.

Party’s Response and Future Outlook

The Social Democrats, who captured 11 seats in the November 2022 elections, had previously advocated for economic sanctions against Israel prior to Mr. Hayes’ election. His suspension was reviewed by the party’s national executive before being reassessed by the parliamentary party. On Friday, just after 18:30, the Social Democrats announced that his suspension had been lifted.

Acting leader Cian O’Callaghan made the decision in accordance with the party’s constitution. He expressed support for Mr. Hayes, stating, “Eoin has been suspended from the parliamentary party for nearly eight months and I believe he should be given a second chance. Eoin has a lot to offer as a Social Democrats TD and I look forward to working with him.”

In response to his reinstatement, Mr. Hayes issued a full and unequivocal apology for the misinformation regarding his divestment timeline. He emphasized the need for transparency and expressed regret for any disappointment caused to his constituents and party members. Mr. Hayes reiterated, “I know I have let people down and I am determined to work hard and earn back people’s trust.”

As Mr. Hayes resumes his role within the Social Democrats, the focus now shifts to how he will navigate the repercussions of his actions and rebuild relationships within the party and the broader community.