Last week’s revelation that an An Post employee used the company’s official email system to forward racist comments against immigrants in Ireland has caused a nationwide outcry.
The nasty, abusive e-mail was filled with untruths about non-Irish people – mainly asylum seekers and those who arrive here illegally. It was also a carefully calculated attempt to incite hatred against Iraqis, Kosovars and Rwandans, respectively described as “terrorists”, “drug-smugglers” and “mass murderers”.
There can be no justification for anyone to write or circulate such hateful information. And the fact that it circulated within of one of Ireland’s biggest employers – one which has benefited immensely from inward migration – raises a lot of questions.
For now we welcome An Post’s announcement that it had begun disciplinary proceedings regarding the e-mail. Yet there is still the question of where the e-mail originated.
It remains to be seen if the e-mail can be accurately traced to its original author – but he or she must be punished for this heinous deed.
At the same time, after paying much lip service to anti-racism, opportunity once more knocks at the door of An Garda Síochána to enforce our equality laws – and of the Government to show leadership in the management of immigration.
The vast majority of immigrants in Ireland are hard workers, and contribute positively towards the development of this great country. The Government must help the public understand that fact.
news@metroeireann.com
