Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern has faced significant criticism after being recorded without his knowledge during door-to-door canvassing in Dublin Central. In the recording, Mr. Ahern stated his belief that We find “too many” immigrants entering the country.
Specifically, Mr. Ahern remarked, “But the ones I worry about are the Africans,” adding that people should not be taken in from “the Congo and all these places.” He further noted that while he was not concerned about the current generation of Muslims, he was worried about the next generation.
Official Condemnation and Party Divide
Tánaiste Simon Harris described the comments as “wrong” and “not appropriate.” While Mr. Harris emphasized that debating migration is “essential” and “perfectly legitimate,” he stated that singling out groups based on race, ethnicity, or religion only serves to “demonise or to stigmatise people.”
Within Fianna Fáil, reactions have been mixed. MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú expressed that she was “surprised and saddened” by the remarks, which she described as “out of character.” She has called on Mr. Ahern to consider issuing an apology, stating that “words matter” in the current climate.
Conversely, Dublin City Councillor Niall Ring dismissed the controversy as “a storm in a teacup” and “gotcha politics at the lowest level.” While acknowledging that the comments regarding Muslims and the Congo were “probably ill-judged,” Mr. Ring argued that Mr. Ahern was speaking bluntly about the “speed and scale of migration.”
Political Fallout in the Dáil
Speaking in the Dáil, Labour leader Ivana Bacik labeled the comments “deeply disturbing,” “dangerous,” and “inflammatory.” She argued that such language could direct public anger toward minorities and migrants.
Ms. Bacik linked the incident to a broader pattern of hostility, citing a candidate in the same by-election, Gerry Hutch, who called for the internment of Somalian migrants. She also noted a “torrent of despicable online racist abuse” directed at Labour candidate Councillor Helen Ogbu in the Galway West by-election.
Potential Next Steps
The situation may evolve if Mr. Ahern decides to follow the request of Cynthia Ní Mhurchú and issue a formal apology. The controversy could lead to intensified debates within the Dáil regarding government migration policy and the protection of candidates from abuse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Bertie Ahern say about immigration?
He stated there were “too many” immigrants coming into the country, specifically expressing worry about people from Africa and the Congo, as well as the next generation of Muslims.
How did Bertie Ahern respond to the recording?
He has since admitted he should not have made comments about Muslims while canvassing and stated he has “no problems” with people from Africa or the Congo.
What was the reaction of the Tánaiste?
Tánaiste Simon Harris stated the comments were “wrong” and “not appropriate,” arguing that singling out groups by race or religion is never acceptable.
Do you believe public figures should be held to a different standard when speaking privately during political canvassing?
