'Lowest common denominator politics': Clashes in Dáil during migration debate

Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns said that the Rural Independents is 'pandering to the far-right' and using dog-whistle politics to the detriment of people seeking asylum in Ireland

(Left to right) Michael Collins, Carol Nolan, Mattie McGrath and Richard O'Donoghue of the Rural Independents who described Ireland’s approach to immigration as an “open door” and “reckless” policy. File picture: Sam Boal /Rollingnews.ie

There were clashes in the Dáil chamber on Wednesday during a debate on migration, as the Rural Independents accused the Government of taking a “reckless” approach to immigration.

A motion brought forward by the Rural Independents focused on Ireland’s approach to immigration, describing it as an “open door” and “reckless” policy. The group is made up of Mattie McGrath, Carol Nolan, Michael Collins, Richard O'Donoghue, Michael Healy-Rae and Danny Healy-Rae.

Ms Nolan said that there is now a “chasm” between public opinion and actions of the Government on immigration, adding that raising the matter leads to being described as a “crypto far-right racist”.

“We have put out the welcome mat to those fleeing here but, increasingly, this has resulted in this nation becoming a doormat for others to trample on with no regard for our laws or security,” Ms Nolan said.

During the debate, there was widespread criticism of the Rural Independents for bringing forward the motion, with Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns labelling it a “disgrace”. Ms Cairns said that the grouping is “pandering to the far-right” and using dog-whistle politics to the detriment of people seeking asylum in Ireland.

“In doing so they are putting a target on the backs of migrants and asylum seekers for the sake of a few votes,” Ms Cairns said.

There were heated exchanges between Labour’s justice spokesperson Aodhán Ó Ríordáin and members of the Rural Independents, as the Dublin TD labelled their tactics as cowardly, despicable and debased.

“This is lowest common denominator politics from a lowest common denominator political grouping,” Mr Ó Ríordáin said.

“All of this is: ‘beware of the outsider; vote for me’.” Mr Ó Ríordáin’s comments led to outcry from the Rural Independents, with Michael Healy-Rae describing him as a “horrible little man”.

Justice Minister Helen McEntee said that she welcomed the chance to debate immigration at a “critical juncture”, saying that it is needed due to the “mistruths and lies” of the far-right being spread following the Dublin riots last month.

“We cannot allow this divisive tone and language to enter our politics,” Ms McEntee said, adding that TDs and senators should not aid people who spread racist or xenophobic disinformation and conspiracy theories.

Sinn Féin’s justice spokesperson, Pa Daly, said that the asylum system at present is “failing” due to the Government’s plan on reforming direct provision not being implemented. In particular, Mr Daly said that people are “cashing in” on private direct provision centres.