Galway Communities Against Racism and Discrimination has condemned the criminal burning of the Ross Lake House Hotel in Rosscahill and is urgently requesting politicians and communities to show leadership in calling for this type of behaviour to end.
In a statement, the groups said that people in Galway have always welcomed people who have come here to build their lives, to work, study or because they need a safe place to live.
“We pride ourselves on being a county that celebrates culture and diversity. We stand in solidarity with those who are due to be accommodated at the hotel and will work to ensure their safety and welcome,” they said.
“Certain politicians, in particular local Fianna Fáil councillors, and groups, seeking to spread fear, hate and misinformation about people seeking asylum, want to distract us from the real problems our communities are facing – such as not having enough homes, healthcare, or public transport.”
GCARD said politicians and policymakers must focus their attention on finding the solutions to these problems that affect all of us, as a matter of urgency, and that An Garda SÃochána bring those responsible to justice.
“No matter who we are, where we were born or where we come from, whether we have lived here all our lives or come here seeking safety, all of us as human beings deserve a safe and secure place to live, thrive and flourish.
“We want to live in communities that are safe and welcoming and that are respectful of everyone, regardless of our ethnicity, gender, or skin colour.
“GCARD promotes the values of inclusion, human rights, and equality. We extend our friendship and welcome to all those who have come to Ireland seeking asylum and refuge. We will continue to work collectively to build a country that is inclusive, welcoming and that rejects the spread of hate and fear.”
The GCARD statement was signed by Galway City Community Network, Galway Traveller Movement, AMACH! LGBT+ Galway, Galway Anti Racism Network, Melting Pot Luck Galway, University of Sanctuary, Galway, Community Knowledge Initiative Galway, Shining Light Galway.
