INAR - Irish Network Against Racism

Bertie “No Bank Account” Ahern’s cruel and dishonest comments expose the reality of political racism in Ireland.

Alongside figures like Simon Harris and Jim O'Callaghan, he has chosen to scapegoat vulnerable communities instead of confronting decades of political failure.

The International Protection Bill has now been enacted, despite serious and sustained concerns raised by INAR and civil society.

This legislation introduces measures that risk undermining fundamental rights, including child detention, restricted access to legal advice and appeals, and weakened protections for vulnerable people.

We acknowledge the decision by President Catherine Connolly to convene the Council of State, reflecting the strength of public concern and collective advocacy.

Thank you to everyone who spoke out and took action. The fight for a fair, humane, and rights-based asylum system continues.

Muslim Sisters of Éire have supported our community for over a decade.

Providing food should never result in abuse.

Racism harms communities. Solidarity protects them.

Today, 8 April, we mark International Romani Day.

At INAR, we recognise the rich history, culture and contributions of Romani communities, while also acknowledging the ongoing racism, exclusion and discrimination many continue to face across Europe and in Ireland.

We oppose all forms of racism against Romani people and stand in solidarity with Romani communities in the fight for equality, dignity and justice.

Vasantkumar Barot thought about su***de daily when he was at his ­lowest point while working for just €1.61 an hour at a Louth restaurant.

He felt trapped.

The migrant worker (42) had to borrow from friends and family to cover his living expenses after selling his house in India to help cover a €15,000 payment for a work permit and the promise of a good job.

Flights were unaffordable, so he has not seen his wife or daughter for four years.

The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) has ordered the owner of a chain of Indian restaurants to pay him €79,214 compensation.

The WRC heard that he was paid as little as €1.61 an hour and worked over 90 hours a week.

After all he has been through, Mr Barot has said he is happy with the award.

“Yeah, it’s good,” he said. “I’m happy about this decision. I didn’t take the case just for money. It’s because that time, I was like, every day, I was crying.

“That time was very hard for me, that one year, two years. Every day I was feeling like I might end my life. Every single day. Because I was like, ‘how do I explain how that time was?’.