Micheál Martin Calls for Withdrawal of Herzog Park Renaming Proposal

The proposal to rename Herzog Park in Dublin has drawn significant criticism from Ireland’s Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, who stated it should be entirely withdrawn. This statement follows concerns expressed by the Office of the President of Israel regarding the potential renaming of the park, which honors Chaim Herzog, the sixth President of Israel, who served from 1983 to 1993. Chaim Herzog was born in Belfast and raised in Dublin.

In a statement released on November 30, 2025, Micheál Martin labeled the proposal as “divisive and wrong.” He emphasized the importance of recognizing the Jewish community’s historical contributions to Irish society, stating, “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.”

Martin further expressed that the motion could be perceived as antisemitic, asserting, “This motion must be withdrawn and I ask all on Dublin City Council to seriously reflect on the implications of this move.” The Dublin City Council is scheduled to vote on the renaming motion on Monday.

The office of the current Israeli President, Isaac Herzog, who is Chaim Herzog’s son, echoed these sentiments. In a statement on social media, the office described the potential renaming as a “shameful and disgraceful move.” It noted, “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 statement underscored Chaim Herzog’s contributions beyond his presidency, highlighting his role as a hero in the fight against Nazism and a proponent of peace and tolerance. It also referenced his father, Rabbi Isaac HaLevi Herzog, who served as the first chief rabbi of the Irish Free State, leaving a significant mark on Irish life during that time.

Irish political figures have united in opposition to the renaming proposal. Simon Harris, Tanaiste and Minister for Justice, stated, “Removing the Herzog name, if it happens, would be a shameful and disgraceful move.” He urged all party leaders to join in rejecting the proposal, reinforcing the idea that it contradicts the principles of inclusivity.

In a similar vein, Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee acknowledged Chaim Herzog’s importance to Ireland’s Jewish community, stating, “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.” She also urged Dublin city councillors to vote against the motion.

As the Dublin City Council prepares to vote on the renaming proposal, the response from political leaders suggests a significant backlash against the initiative. The collective stance emphasizes a commitment to recognizing the contributions of the Jewish community in Ireland and preserving the historical ties between Ireland and Israel.