Micheal Martin Calls for Withdrawal of Herzog Park Renaming Proposal

Micheal Martin, Ireland’s Taoiseach, has urged Dublin City Council to withdraw a controversial proposal to rename Herzog Park entirely. This park, located in south Dublin, is named after Chaim Herzog, who served as the sixth president of Israel from 1983 to 1993 and has strong connections to Ireland, having been born in Belfast and raised in Dublin.

On November 30, 2025, Martin described the renaming proposal as “divisive and wrong” and emphasized the importance of recognizing the historical contributions of the Jewish community in Ireland. He stated, “The proposal would erase the distinctive and rich contribution to Irish life of the Jewish community over many decades, including actual participation in the Irish War of Independence and the emerging state.”

This motion is set to be voted on by Dublin city councillors on Monday. In his public statement, Martin asserted that proceeding with the renaming would be perceived as antisemitic and a denial of Ireland’s history. He added, “Our Irish Jewish community’s contribution to our country’s evolution in its many forms should always be cherished and generously acknowledged.”

Following Martin’s remarks, the office of current Israeli President Isaac Herzog, son of Chaim Herzog, also expressed concern. In a statement shared on social media, they condemned the proposal as a “shameful and disgraceful move.” The statement highlighted Chaim Herzog’s legacy not only as an Israeli leader but also as a hero who fought against the Nazis and promoted values of freedom and tolerance.

The Israeli President’s office remarked, “We are following with concern the reports from Ireland regarding the intention to harm the legacy of the sixth president of the state of Israel, the late Chaim Herzog, as well as harming the unique expression of the historical connection between the Irish and Jewish peoples.” They underscored the historical bond between Israel and Ireland, noting that Chaim Herzog’s father, Rabbi Isaac HaLevi Herzog, served as the first Chief Rabbi of the Irish Free State and made a significant impact on Irish life.

In light of the proposal, Dublin City Council members have come under pressure from various political figures. Simon Harris, Ireland’s Tánaiste, voiced his opposition on social media, stating, “Removing the Herzog name, if it happens, would be a shameful and disgraceful move.” He called for all party leaders to join him in opposing the renaming of the park.

Helen McEntee, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, also weighed in, highlighting the importance of Chaim Herzog to many, particularly within Ireland’s Jewish community. She remarked, “Renaming a Dublin park in this way – to remove the name of an Irish Jewish man – has nothing to do with this and has no place in our inclusive republic.”

As Dublin City Council prepares for the upcoming vote, the implications of the proposed renaming have sparked a significant debate regarding heritage and inclusivity in Ireland. The outcome remains uncertain, but the strong sentiments expressed by national leaders indicate the proposal will face substantial opposition.