Author: Kate McDonald
Taoiseach’s Comments on Immigration and Homelessness Spark Controversy Over the weekend, Taoiseach Simon Harris made comments linking immigration rates to levels of homelessness, prompting criticism from various organizations and politicians. The Irish Refugee Council called the comments “problematic and not logical.” President Michael D Higgins also weighed in, stating that he did not believe the homelessness crisis was linked to immigration. While the Taoiseach defended his statements, pointing out a connection between people exiting direct provision and seeking homeless services, critics argue that international protection applicants are not included in homelessness figures. They emphasize that the root cause of homelessness…
Protests in Coolock Escalate into Violent Clash with Gardaí A recent incident in Coolock has captured attention as clashes between protesters and gardaí near a site intended for accommodating migrants escalated into violence. The protest camp, established since March outside a former factory site, has been a focal point of opposition to plans for housing International Protection Applicants. Earlier this week, tensions soared as security guards attempted to clear the camp, leading to confrontations and ultimately the setting of a garda vehicle on fire. The situation intensified as protesters, including politicians and nationalist groups, gathered in solidarity against the planned…
Organisers of a youth disco event in Co Wicklow faced shocking backlash and hateful comments, forcing them to postpone the event. The planned ‘Rainbow Disco’ was supposed to be a safe space for teenagers, but malicious slurs on social media accused the organisers of being “groomers” and pedophiles. The Chair of Wicklow Pride, Patrick Bracken, expressed dismay at the targeted attacks, including letters with derogatory messages left in committee members’ letterboxes. Minister Roderic O’Gorman condemned the hate, emphasizing the importance of not letting progress be reversed. While some posts have been removed, others continue to perpetuate harmful stereotypes targeting the…
Recent data shows that political organisations and candidates in Ireland significantly increased their spending on online ads leading up to the conclusion of campaigns. Meta, which runs Facebook and Instagram, saw a surge in ad spending by parties like Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil. Google also experienced a significant increase in ad spending, with Sinn Féin leading the way. Research by Who Targets Me revealed that Sinn Féin was the biggest spender on both Meta and Google platforms, followed by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. The spending patterns varied, with some parties doubling their rates in the final days of…