Racist Hate Crimes In Ireland Are Growing At An “Alarming” Rate

A shocking report released by an Irish anti-racism group shows that the past six months in Ireland saw the highest levels yet of racist incidents.

The data was launched as today, March 21st, is the international day against racism.

The statistics in the report from ENAR Ireland (European Network Against Racism Ireland) reveal that racist incidents are up to 245 from 190 for the previous six month period, with at least 155 of these being in the

category of criminal offences.

Of the 245 recorded incidents, 48.9% were abuse, 16% were social media comments, 13.8% reported discrimination, and 11% of victims said they suffered violent attacks.

"71% of victims had Irish citizenship"

The report also shows that more than half of the victims are Irish citizens, demonstrating the embedded nature of racism against minorities in Ireland.

According to the data, 65% of the racist incidents were initiated by a stranger, and people ages 35-44 were most likely to be at risk.

Speaking about the concerning figures, Shane OCurry, Director of ENAR Ireland, said that:

“The report clearly shows that we in Ireland are not immune to the Brexit and Trump effects.

"When racist violence and dehumanising attitudes against minorities are not treated seriously, hate speech from overseas finds fertile ground in Ireland.”

Ireland lacks hate speech legislation

Enar also stated that Ireland lacks the tools and resources it needs to combat racism , and that the country is "delinquent" in not having Hate Crime

Legislation.

They are calling on Irish leaders to provide a coherent vision and strategy in the form of a National Action Plan Against Racism, that would help "us to live in a

Republic that cherishes us all equally.”