LIMERICK-based migrant and refugee rights organisation Doras said it was appalled to learn of a verbal attack on a man from a migrant background in the heart of the Treaty City this week.
The man, set upon in the People’s Park, was targeted in “an act of harassment and violence”, said Doras, who work to promote and protect the rights of people from migrant backgrounds in Ireland.
The incident was filmed of a group carrying out the tirade on the bewildered migrant man, following “unfounded and fabricated allegations against him” according to Doras, and shared across social media locally.
“It has understandably caused fear and distress within migrant communities – and, rightly, outrage among the vast majority of people in Limerick who reject racism and vigilantism,” a statement from Doras read this Wednesday.
“Limerick has a proud tradition of being a welcoming and inclusive city. Organised hate and harassment of any group has no place here – and it must not be tolerated.
“We urge everyone: please do not share or engage with posts or videos that spread false claims. Doing so can put innocent people in real danger.”
Doras told the Limerick Post that it is providing support to the man, making clear its position of standing firmly with all migrants and others who face harassment or violence because of who they are.
Social Democrats councillor Elisa O’Donovan told the Limerick Post that she is “beyond appalled and distressed” at the targeted attack.
“People born outside Ireland, including myself, make up almost half of our city centre population. Migrants come to Limerick for great opportunities to work, to study, and to live,” Cllr O’Donovan said.
“These targeted acts of harassment against migrants add to a culture of feeling unsafe and fear in our city centre.”
The Soc Dems councillor urged those recording or sharing such incidents to consider that they are “spreading disinformation, violence, and hate within our city”.
“As a local councillor, I will do everything I can to support communities built on safety, kindness, and mutual respect and support.”
It is understood the man is currently being supported by external agencies, including Doras, who are liaising with Gardaí following the incident.
Doras has called on anyone who witnesses or experiences racism or a hate crime to contact 083 008 6391 or email [email protected].
