Malachy Steenson and several far-right groups are planning a demonstration at the Garden of Remembrance in Dublin tomorrow, Saturday, 26th April.
In response, United Against Racism (UAR), supported by over 50 organisations, including Trade unions, Student Unions, migrant groups and housing activists, has organised a counter-protest at 1:30pm tomorrow at the GPO on O’Connell Street, Dublin 1 to oppose the far-right agenda.
UAR member Darragh Adelaide said 'Dublin is diverse, with people living and working here from across the world. When the far-right lead marches through our cities unopposed, they spread fear and intimidation in our communities. They peddle misinformation to dehumanise minorities, implying migrants are dangerous, playing on people’s anger for their own gain.
'People are frustrated about the housing crisis, hospital waiting lists and the cost of living. The far-right want the 99% of us at the bottom to blame each other. We will be calling out the Government for causing and intensifying the housing crisis, the shocking lack of resources and supports for those with additional needs, the health and public service crises.
'Those leading the far-right rally, like Steenson, happily met with Conor McGregor who has been found guilty of sexual assault in a civil case brought by Nikita Hand, and millionaire grifters like Tucker Carlson. Steenson calls for the roll-back of abortion rights and the march is endorsed by "Coolock Says No" who march side-by-side with loyalist paramilitaries. The Far-right demonstration is endorsed by the National party, who’s former leader described Hitler as the "greatest leader of all time".
The far right are also a threat to trade union rights and workers’ living standards. Malachy Steenson, a main organiser of the far right demonstration, has spoken out recently against a planned increase to the minimum wage and backed the Government’s decision to defer the increase.
'Tomorrow we want to show that Dublin stands up to the far-right, and that we want diversity, not division,' the South Dublin County Councillor said.