Fórsa strongly condemns the recent attacks and threats against asylum seekers across the country, and stands in solidarity with refugees, international protection applicants and their representative organisations.

The recent disturbing sights of groups of people blocking roads and burning down encampment sites has been a troubling development, and the targeting and abuse of those outside the International Protection Office on Mount Street in Dublin is further evidence of attacks by the far right and their supporters on vulnerable individuals seeking safety and refuge.

The Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights has already raised concerns about the issue of homelessness among international protection applicants in Ireland and said the State may not be meeting the minimum requirements under European law.

Fórsa General Secretary, Kevin Callinan condemned the attacks and said that the best way to defeat the far right is by delivering decent work, wages, rights, public services, and homes for all.

“The trade union movement stands with refugees and international protection applicants and their representative organisations. We will continue to build solidarity between working people of all backgrounds and to work towards ensuring that the messages of the far right never gain mainstream traction in our unions, communities, and workplaces”.

The Irish Congress of Trade Union has also supported calls by the Irish Refugee Council for asylum seekers without accommodation to be brought off the streets immediately and placed in temporary accommodation to ensure their safety. 

ICTU called on Government to urgently address the failures in our international protection system and work with communities in providing a supportive environment for those seeking protection.

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