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Collective action is required to tackle racism and reverse polarisation

The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (‘the Commission’) is extremely concerned at reports that people espousing far-right ideology sought to exploit the tragic crime which occurred on Parnell Square East yesterday, in order to foment anti-immigrant sentiment. Collective action by the State, and civil society, is required over a sustained period to tackle racism and to prevent further polarisation of our society. Chief Commissioner Sinéad Gibney said:
“The exploitation by far-right elements of social issues such as the housing crisis, or the accommodation of people seeking international protection in Ireland, has been a worrying trend for some time. It is critical that we, as a society, do not allow this hateful, divisive ideology to infect our communities and our politics.  So many of us, all around Ireland, have shown how welcoming we are to people from around the world who have come to live and work here.  We have to be vigilant, and work to ensure that this practical solidarity continues, and is not undermined by those who only seek to sow division and hate.
The Commission extends its heartfelt sympathies to the children and care worker who were injured on Parnell Square East, and wishes them a full recovery.” ENDS/ For further information, please contact: Jean O’Mahony, IHREC Head of Strategic Engagement jean.omahony@ihrec.ie/ 087 382 4248 Follow us on twitter @_IHREC

Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission

The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission is an independent public body, appointed by the President and directly accountable to the Oireachtas. The Commission has a statutory remit set out under the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act (2014) to protect and promote human rights and equality in Ireland, and build a culture of respect for human rights, equality and intercultural understanding in the State. The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission is Ireland’s national human rights institution and is recognised as such by the United Nations. The Commission is also Ireland’s national equality body for the purpose of a range of EU anti-discrimination measures.