To celebrate Metro Éireann’s 11th anniversary, we decided to revisit our first editorial published in April 2000. In the coming weeks we will also be reprinting articles from the past decade to give our readers today a greater insight into the evolution of multiculturalism in Ireland.
During the launch of Metro Éireann, we wrote that immigrants and ethnic minorities in Ireland might come from different backgrounds, but the majority have one thing in common: a desire to “contribute to the development of Ireland, the country they now regard as their new home.”
To do so, we stated that they needed a helping hand, and we put forward Metro Éireann as a channel through which they could be informed.
Unlike the incomplete coverage of immigrant affairs by the mainstream media, we continue to present a more balanced expression to the new communities. We are happy that we have also operated in the best interest of Irish democracy, giving groups across the country a chance to air their views irrespective of their backgrounds.
In addition, we have showcased the rich cultural diversity that exists in Ireland by establishing various integration initiatives, including the MAMA Awards and the Dublin International Gospel Music Festival.
But we did not do this alone. When we launched we sought “the help and co-operation of all-good minded people in and outside of Ireland”. We are indeed grateful to all those who rallied behind us, particularly Booker Prize winner Roddy Doyle for his exclusive short stories and his invaluable support.
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