A far-right group hijacked a peaceful protest outside of Dublin's Mansion House last night, according to the Lord Mayor.
Up to 30 people attended the demonstration and one person was arrested.
Lord Mayor Hazel Chu says a peaceful event was taking place, which is organised at the house annually by the Irish Republican Brotherhood.
I despise racism. I’m so sorry Hazel Chu had to put up with this unacceptable behaviour and I’m glad she is safe. Targeting anyone because they are an Irish woman of colour tells you all you need to know about these “protesters.” Utterly unacceptable and dangerous behaviour.
— Christopher O’Sullivan TD (@COSullivanTD) January 22, 2021
Four people were due to gather outside, however Hazel Chu says a far right group hijacked the event.
Mayor Chu says everyone has a right to protest but they should do so peacefully.
"I do have an issue with perhaps people at people's homes."
The Green Councillor said the situation is "weird" for her family as her daughter Alex lives in the Mansion House as well.
Thank You to An Garda Síochána for their assistance yesterday. I will continue to work with all interested parties on addressing racism and working on integration in our city. @hazechu @GardaTraffic @DubCityCouncil https://t.co/DbX02PjCyR
— Lord Mayor of Dublin (@LordMayorDublin) January 22, 2021
"She's young and I don't want to her see any of the issues that people may have with me."
"If people have issues with me over my policies and what I do then, absolutely."
"I don't need anyone calling me names," she added.
Fingal Community Group Appeals To Public To Report Racism
Meanwhile a Dublin Community group have appealed to the public to report any racist material they see.
Fingal Communities Against Racism says that far-right groups are exploiting crime fears in Balbriggan.
It says people's concerns are being played upon in order to push a narrative that diversity leads to crime.
The group has warned that by the time real facts are established, great damage is being done through social media.
