“Simon Harris, the Taoiseach, and Roderic O’Gorman have expressed their desire to enact hate crime legislation before the conclusion of the current Government’s tenure. Harris wishes to see this important legislation put into action during his government’s term and noted that Justice Minister Helen McEntee is set to introduce adjustments to such legislation in the encompassing term.
Harris clarified that certain modifications are necessary to the current bill, especially to ensure that there is no conflict with the fundamental right of freedom of speech within the hate speech section.
Turning to other issues, Mr. O’Gorman highlighted the gravity of attacks on individuals living in makeshift accommodation. He lamented the vulnerability of homeless individuals and the active threat some face due to nationality and ethnicity. O’Gorman strongly asserted that such instances underline the urgency of hate crime legislation.
In terms of international standing, Ireland is lagging other European countries in legislating against hate crimes. The proposed bill is under active consideration by the three government party leaders, and he is eager for progress.
When queried about the Government’s strategy for those seeking international protection in terms of housing, Mr. O’Gorman shed light on a dual approach being adopted. This involves not just assisting those awaiting suitable accommodation, but also the development of a substantial base of State-owned accommodation featuring more than 13,000 beds.”
Three public facilities for short-term housing are currently operational at Crooksling, Ballyogan in Co Dublin, and at Newtownmountkennedy in Co Wicklow. An immense amount of preparation has gone into getting a fourth location at Thornton Hall in North Dublin ready. Hopes are high that people will be housed there within the coming weeks. Initially, this will be in tented housing, but with plans to replace this with long-term and modular-style residences.
Offering public housing will result in substantial savings in the long run compared to the costs incurred in utilising private services for emergency housing, as has been the practice so far.
Mr. Harris expressed the attackers as representing a minute fraction of the population. “Our great nation should not let its reputation be tarnished by those who are not democratically elected, usually don’t aspire to be, those who sporadically misuse our national symbol to represent us falsely. We’re a compassionate, reasonable people. Irish citizens indeed desire pragmatic solutions in terms of migration. They expect everyone in the government to endorse Mr. O’Gorman’s endeavors to establish a viable housing system.
It falls upon us as residents to loudly and unambiguously denounce hatred, bigotry, and racism each time it occurs. This is not indicative of our identity,” he stated.