TD hits out at rise in racist attacks

The Irish Network Against Racism report recorded 159 criminal incidents reported in 2020, a record 51 racist assaults and a frighteningly high 594 incidents of hate speech.

A local TD has expressed alarm at the reported rise in racist incidents reported in 2020, according to the Irish Network Against Racism’s recent findings.

Sinn Féin’s justice spokesman, Martin Kenny TD, who represents Sligo, Leitrim, North Roscommon and South Donegal, said it was distressing as it seemed the age of those perpetrating such offences is getting younger. “Racism expressed on social media and the fake news spread by the Far Right has resulted in this worrying trend.”

“There were two quoted examples of fake news, one regarding people trafficking by the Romanian community and another which blamed African teenagers for starting a fire in North County Dublin. Both of these were complete fabrication, but along with lies about the Covid-19 virus being spread by the Asian community, such fake news creates an atmosphere of ignorant suspicion and fear and is a breeding ground for racism,” said Deputy Kenny.

The Irish Network Against Racism report pointed to the 159 criminal incidents reported in 2020, a record 51 racist assaults and a frighteningly high 594 incidents of hate speech. “We must remember that these are the reported incidents, while recognising that many such crimes and incidents go unreported,” said Deputy Kenny.

“It is the responsibility of us all to face down racism, but there is a specific role for the education system, An Garda Siochána and the media, including the giant social media companies who must be made to take responsibility for their content.”