Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, RISE) | Oireachtas source

United Against Racism is holding a rally today at 5.30 p.m. at the Spire to state clearly that we have a housing crisis, not a refugee crisis, and that refugees are welcome here. It is an expression of unity and solidarity in response to the division and hate being spread by the far right. People who arrive here are fleeing wars, climate change and brutal oppression. They are not responsible for the housing crisis, which existed well before they arrived. Blaming asylum seekers plays into the hands of those profiting from that crisis, namely, corporate landlords and big developers. Instead of being divided, we need to unite, welcome those coming here and fight together for the homes and services we all need. When will the action plan against racism be published? I understand it was submitted by the independent anti-racism committee on 27 June but still has not been brought to Government.

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