The Daily Star Ireland
A wave of assaults targeting members of Ireland’s Indian community has drawn strong condemnation from political and religious leaders, prompting the cancellation of a major cultural event.
India Day Cancelled Over Safety Concerns
The Ireland India Council announced it will not proceed with this year’s India Day celebration at Farmleigh in Phoenix Park, originally scheduled for Sunday, due to safety fears following recent attacks. Council chair Prashant Shuki explained that the decision was made after consultations with gardaí and other stakeholders, calling it “very difficult” but necessary. The event may be rescheduled once the security situation improves.
President Higgins: “Such Acts Diminish All of Us”
President Michael D. Higgins described the attacks as “despicable” and “in stark contradiction” to Irish values. In a statement, he condemned any behaviour that draws people—especially the young—into racially motivated violence, whether through “ignorance or malice.”
Highlighting Ireland’s long history of migration, both emigration and immigration, President Higgins said this shared human experience should guide how newcomers are treated. “To forget that is to lose a part of ourselves,” he remarked, adding that the Indian community’s contributions have enriched Irish society in countless ways.
Archbishop Farrell Calls for Action Against Racism
Catholic Archbishop of Dublin Dermot Farrell also denounced the assaults, labelling them “completely and utterly despicable.” Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, he said a small group of individuals is making public life unsafe for Indian residents and must be “called out” for spreading racial hatred.
Farrell noted that many Indians in Ireland were invited to work in vital sectors, often caring for vulnerable people, and are highly valued for their roles. He urged communities to support gardaí in addressing the attacks, pledging to write to parishes, parish councils, and schools to encourage integration and mutual respect.
Government Response and Calls for Education
Following a meeting with Ireland India Council representatives, Tánaiste Simon Harris reiterated his condemnation of the attacks, calling them “despicable” and unacceptable. He emphasised that Ireland’s approximately 80,000 Indian residents make a “very positive contribution” and that efforts to combat racism must include early education in schools.
The situation has also sparked wider calls for stronger policing, community engagement, and early intervention to ensure safety for all residents, regardless of background.
