Bertie Ahern
Bertie Ahern’s immigrant comments have been slammed as “inflammatory and dangerous” by members of Ireland’s African community.
The Africa Solidarity Centre Ireland has said that former taoiseach Ahern’s comments were “entirely unacceptable”. In a clip shared on social media, Mr Ahern is heard saying that “too many” immigrants are entering Ireland and the country “can’t be taking people in from the Congo”.
In a statement issued yesterday evening, the ASCI said Mr Ahern’s comments go against the work of communities across Ireland that are building unity and inclusion. Chairperson Lassane Ouedraogo stressed the difference between policy making and scapegoating of communities when it comes to immigration.
He said: “These remarks are shocking, discriminatory, and entirely unacceptable from any public figure, particularly from a former Taoiseach who once represented the Irish State at the highest level and who benefited from the support, trust, and goodwill of Ireland’s increasingly diverse communities throughout his political career.
“ASCI considers these comments to be inflammatory and dangerous. They risk legitimising racism, fuelling anti-immigrant hostility, deepening social divisions, and encouraging fear and suspicion towards African communities, migrants, refugees, and Muslims living peacefully in Ireland.”
In footage shared on social media, Bertie Ahern can be heard expressing concerns that “too many” immigrants are entering Ireland
The comments were made in response to a question from the woman recording the video, who asked “Can we not close our borders?”. The comments were also condemned by Taoiseach and Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin, who said they do not reflect the party’s position.
Mr Ahern told RTE that the video was filmed without his knowledge, and that the clip formed part of a lengthier discussion. But his response was considered irresponsible by the ASCI.
Mr Ouedraogo continued: “At a time when communities across Ireland are working to build unity, inclusion, and peaceful coexistence, it is profoundly irresponsible for political figures to engage in rhetoric that singles out Africans or Muslims as a source of concern or threat. Such language has real-world consequences. It creates fear, emboldens extremists, and places social cohesion and public safety at risk.
“ASCI recognises that immigration policy is a legitimate area for democratic discussion and public debate. However, there is a fundamental difference between responsible policy discussion and the scapegoating of entire communities for political relevance or electoral advantage. Political discourse must never descend into fearmongering, racial profiling, or attempts to divide society along ethnic or religious lines.”
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