Migration is good for Ireland, Leo Varadkar tells Dáil
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar warned fellow politicians that 'more than ever' they must understand the effects that their words have when talking about migration. File picture: PA
Migration should be seen as a "good thing" for Ireland, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has told the Dáil.
Mr Varadkar has warned fellow politicians that "more than ever" they must understand the effects that their words have when talking about the issue of migration.
His comments came after Tipperary TD Michael Lowry raised the "resentment" that he said is "simmering" in towns and villages across Ireland, before calling on the Government to "modify and rebalance" its immigration policy.
"This genuine and heartfelt anger is not coming from organised factions, it is coming from ordinary people," Mr Lowry told the Dáil.
People are filled with pent-up worry, fear, and frustration at how their communities have changed due to the influx of international protection applicants.
"It has reached the stage where people fear the department will target every vacant building in their communities.
"I want to say that the Irish people, and I, am not racist."
In response, Mr Varadkar said it is important that politicians have the "courage" to make the case in favour of migration to the State.
"I want to make the case for migration and why it is a good thing for Ireland," said Mr Varadkar. "When I go into any hospital in Ireland, including the ones in which I have worked, I see a diverse workforce.
"Many of the doctors, nurses, and other staff who looked after the stabbing victims come from other parts of the world.
"When I go into high-tech or pharmaceutical companies — the ones paying massive taxes to the State — I see a diverse workforce. I know those companies would not be in Ireland were it not for the fact that they can recruit staff from all over the world.
"We would not have the money we now have for health, education, or housing were it not for the migrants who come to Ireland and work in those companies.
"When I go to a restaurant, cafe, or shop, I see a diverse workforce as well.
The Taoiseach said a lot of people, particularly those of colour in Ireland, are now very afraid because of what happened on Thursday night in Dublin's city centre.
Labour leader Ivana Bacik said that long before the riots of last week, there had been "despicable events orchestrated" by the far right across the country, including anti-migrant protests, anti-LGBT protests outside libraries, and people burnt out of tents on Mount St, Dublin.
"Everyone in this House is aware of the hate and disinformation that is being spread, particularly about immigration," said Ms Bacik.
"I am sorry to say that there are high-profile individuals in this country and people in this House and in the Seanad who have used language about immigration that has undoubtedly contributed to the spread of that disinformation."
