Sir, – There is no doubt that a former taoiseach commenting on specific ethnic groups in such a disparaging way is highly inappropriate and unhelpful.
However, the politicians jumping to condemn Bertie Ahern are failing to recognise the widely held concern across Irish society that current levels of immigration into the country are too high and placing pressure on already squeezed resources such as housing and healthcare.
It is clear from other countries that when mainstream political leaders fail to take action on issues like immigration, they create space for more radicalised and divisive alternatives to thrive.
Equally, shutting down conversations on the topic with accusations like “racist” and “far right” merely pushes the debate underground.
There should be nothing controversial about supporting calls for a more robust immigration system that aligns with the interests of this country and its people. – Yours, etc,
GARETH GREGAN,Ennis, Co Clare.
Sir, – As a Drumcondra resident and a member of “Drumcondra for All”, I wish to dissociate myself from what I adjudge to be the racist comments by Bertie Ahern as posted on social media and reported in The Irish Times (May 14th).
His words that the “ones I worry about are the Africans,” plus his additional comments that “we can’t be taking in people from the Congo and all those places” can only be interpreted as prejudice based on ethnicity and skin colour.
His further comment that he is concerned about second- generation Muslims born to people who came into the country is very disturbing.
From a taoiseach who helped to draw up the Belfast Agreement- that has helped to break down religious prejudice in Ireland – his comments can only add fuel to the fire of racism.
BRENDAN BUTLER,Drumcondra,Dublin 9.