IT IS TIME TO TAKE AN IRISH STAND

Offering support for Aodhán Ó Ríordáin’s Irish Stand event taking place in New York this Friday, Labour Party Leader, Brendan Howlin has said:

“Today, our Taoiseach will visit the White House, and present a bowl of shamrock to Donald Trump. We know he will raise the plight of the undocumented Irish in America. For now, we have no idea whether he will speak out on our behalf against President Trump’s racist travel ban.

“Whatever the Taoiseach does, the stance of the Labour Party is clear. We oppose the policies being pursued by President Trump.

“On both sides of the Atlantic this week, the Labour Party will stand for equality, solidarity and freedom. Deputy Lord Mayor of Dublin, Rebecca Moynihan will express our solidarity with the undocumented at the Migrant Rights Centre of Ireland rally today.

“Senator Aodhán Ó Ríordáin has organised a rally in aid of the ACLU for St. Patrick’s Day in New York City to tell the real story of the Irish – a story of immigration, seeking refuge, overcoming suppression and conflict.

“Ireland is an open and tolerant nation. We believe that those who are experiencing violence and oppression in their home nations should be welcomed to nations that can provide them with safety and security and opportunity. President Trump does not share our values.”