24th February 2002

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Racism and Immigration Control Platform must be challenged

Sinn Fein representative for Dublin South Central Aengus Ó Snodaigh has called on all those who will be seeking election for the constituency to make a commitment that they will not play politics with the race issue in the run up to the election. This follows the announcement of Áine Ni Chonaill of the Immigration Control Platform that she is to contest the constituency in the upcoming election.

Mr. Ó Snodaigh said:

``Over the last number of months we have seen cynical attempts to stir up racial hatred in advance of the general election. The announcement by the Immigration Control Platform that it is to contest Dublin South Central on an overtly racist platform is deeply worrying.

``The ICP's claim to represent the silent majority in Irish society is a challenge to all of us - to stand up and have our voices heard. We want an Ireland based on tolerance, respect and mutual understanding.

``It is the responsibility of all of us to give leadership on this issue and to make a public, united stand against racism. Therefore I am calling on candidates in the constituency to make a commitment that they will not play politics with the race issue. And I am calling on party leaders to ensure that they will not allow candidates to use the race issue to score short-term political points. Racism, of any form, cannot be tolerated. ''ENDS

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