All of the main political parties publicly signed an anti-racism protocol outside the Dáil today ahead of the upcoming General Election.
|
Taoiseach Mr Ahern, Fine Gael leader Mr Michael Noonan, Labour Party leader Mr Ruarí Quinn, Green Party leader Mr Trevor Sargent, Ms Liz O'Donnell of the Progressive Democrats and Mr Mitchell McLaughlin of Sinn Féin attended the formal signing today of a giant version of the protocol.
The chairman of Know Racism - the national anti-racism awareness programme - Mr Joe McDonagh, said he was very pleased by the turnout for the demonstration by political leaders in the fight against racism in Ireland.
Mr McDonagh called on political parties to ensure their candidates and election agents knew their parties' commitments under the anti-racism protocol for political parties.
He said all elected representatives must be responsible in their comments about non-nationals and minority groups living here.
There are now over 160 nationalities working and living in the State, "the vast majority of whom are making a very positive contribution to the economy and Irish society", he said.
Given the recent rise in racist attacks on minorities Mr McDonagh said that "people in positions of influence have a duty to act responsibly".
Launched in October 2001, the Know Racism programme aims to increase awareness of the problem of racism in Ireland and helps contribute to create the conditions to build an inclusive and intercultural society.