Editorials

The Irish Times view on arson attacks: keep the focus on the criminals

Community concerns should be kept separate from violent actions whose perpetrators must be brought to justice

A fire broke out at the former Shipwright pub in Ringsend, Dublin. Photograph: Dublin Fire Brigade

Fri Jan 5 2024 - 20:30

Recent arson attacks on vacant buildings in Co Galway and Dublin city have given rise to considerable debate and some controversy over the levels of consultation and information-sharing that should take place with representatives of communities where accommodation for international protection applicants is planned.

While such issues undoubtedly deserve consideration, they should not be permitted to distract or deflect from the fact that these are grave crimes for which those responsible must be held to account.

The fire on December 16th in Rosscahill, Co Galway, which severely damaged a hotel, is being treated as arson by gardaí, who believe it was the work of a local person or persons opposed to the building’s proposed use as accommodation for asylum seekers. The premises in Ringsend, Dublin, where fire broke out on New Year’s Eve, had been the subject of false rumours that it was also to house refugees. Gardaí have confirmed the Ringsend incident was also the work of arsonists, and are examining social media posts which allegedly called for an attack on the building.

There have been almost 20 criminal acts of this sort carried out across the State over the last five years, with a surge in their number in 2023. The director of the Dublin Region Homeless Executive, speaking about the Ringsend incident, was correct to emphasise the importance of separating legitimate community concerns from these criminal actions. Not everyone has been so careful. In Galway, a Fianna Fáil councillor stated the arson had happened because of “senseless” Government policy. In Dublin, a Fine Gael councillor said the Ringsend attack was the result of a failure of official communications. Such statements are not just inaccurate, they serve to shift responsibility away from those who are actually responsible for serious offences.

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The Department of Justice says the Garda is doing everything possible to investigate the causes of the recent fires, but there is little sign as yet of progress in either investigation. In the wake of November’s riot in Dublin, some concern has been expressed about the force’s ability to respond swiftly to violent disorder instigated by far-right provocateurs. Anti-racism campaigners have cited social media posts which they say incited the Ringsend attack. The Department has responded by suggesting the new Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences Bill, which is due to pass its final stage in the upcoming Dáil term, will give gardaí greater powers to tackle offences of this sort. The Bill, which has already been the subject of contention, will likely provoke further debate in light of recent events. In the meantime, the Garda must continue to pursue the perpetrators of these crimes with all the powers currently at its disposal.

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