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The leader of Ireland has asserted that the government’s reaction to the Dublin riots will be strong and unwavering, despite accusations from Sinn Fein of being unrealistic.
Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar expressed his unwavering trust in the police, Garda leadership, and Minister for Justice Helen McEntee following a demand from Sinn Fein leader Mary-Lou McDonald to remove her from her position.
Ms McDonald mentioned that the riots were a long-developing issue and pointed out that Canada, Australia, and the UK have advised their citizens against traveling to Dublin.
According to her, the rioting that occurred on O’Connell Street last Thursday resulted in the loss of control of Dublin city centre. This incident followed a knife attack on children and a carer outside a school.
Ms McDonald alleged that the Government is not paying attention and expressed her trust in the police force, but lacking trust in Garda Commissioner Drew Harris and Ms McEntee.
“According to the speaker, Minister McEntee is unwilling to acknowledge that Dublin city center has lost control. It appears that the minister has progressed from denying the issue to experiencing complete delusion. It is evident that she is not fit to lead and regain public trust in law enforcement.”
“Prime Minister, Helen McEntee’s current position is no longer sustainable. It is imperative that you take action and dismiss her as Minister of Justice.”
She stated, “The reality is that trust in law enforcement and maintaining public safety is currently at its lowest point… I am being direct and transparent when I say that we need a new beginning, and Minister McEntee is not the appropriate person to provide the necessary leadership during this crucial period.”
Mr Varadkar outlined measures including retaining two public order units in Dublin until at least Christmas, as well as accelerating plans for more gardai, more equipment for gardai and more prison places.
He stated that the Government’s reaction is strong and will be implemented in the short, medium, and long term. He criticized the Sinn Fein leader for engaging in political tactics and seeking to assign blame.
During her time in office, Ms McEntee has been a proactive and dedicated minister on matters related to law enforcement and the justice system.
During discussions in the Irish Parliament, Ivana Bacik, leader of the Labour party, urged for a separate examination of the events that occurred on Thursday evening, stating that a review by the Policing Authority was insufficient.
She stated that we should have an unbiased evaluation of the mistakes that were made.
The government must demonstrate a genuine effort to address and focus on the far right, ensuring that intelligence-driven law enforcement is actively confronting them.
“Furthermore, it is imperative for the Government to pledge their support in providing necessary resources for the gardai, especially those on the frontlines, in order to increase personnel numbers and prevent any further decline, as the current count is below 4,000.”
She also emphasized the need for political solidarity, pointing out the tendency to show off not just from the opposing party, but also from Fianna Fail senators.
“It’s simply a show for attention, pretending to take action when what the citizens of this country and city truly need is strong political leadership and a united front against the dangerous far right. It’s essential for us to come together in the face of this threat, especially since we’re not even receiving it from our own government.”
Varadkar stated that he would take into account an unbiased evaluation.
Ms McEntee had been urged to address safety concerns in Dublin prior to the outbreak of violence last week, which led to the burning of vehicles, buses, and trams, as well as damage and looting of shops.
While entering Cabinet on Tuesday, Ms McEntee was expected to brief her colleagues on the Dublin riots. She stated that her main focus was still on her job, emphasizing that it has always been her top priority.
The Fine Gael Justice Minister has the support of Finance Minister and Fianna Fail TD Michael McGrath as well as Minister for Transport and Green Party leader Eamon Ryan.
On Tuesday, Mr. McGrath stated that he believes her Cabinet colleagues fully support her and that this is not a matter of individual personalities.
He stated that, in general, he has faith in the safety of the capital, but the riots in Dublin would greatly shake the confidence of many individuals.
He stated that the events that took place in Dublin last Thursday were a disrespectful act towards our democratic values. It is imperative for all political entities and public institutions to unite and confront these troublemakers.
This is why it is essential to have a robust reaction to the events that occurred. The public expects to see repercussions for the violence and chaos that occurred on the streets of our nation’s capital last week.
Mr. Ryan stated that he would back Ms. McEntee in any vote of confidence, but expressed concern that Dublin is not secure enough.
Green Party TD Neasa Hourigan was asked about her stance on supporting Ms McEntee in a confidence motion. In response, Mr. Ryan stated that the Green Party will be voting to support the current Government, as they are a part of it.
“In the realm of Government, collaboration and teamwork are essential components.”
“I will be expressing my confidence in the Minister of Justice and I believe it is crucial that we prioritize delivering improved safety at this moment.”
I do not think that simply dismissing them, as suggested by both Drew Harris and the Minister of Justice, is a sufficient solution to the problem. Instead of approaching it purely from a political standpoint, more thoughtful and effective actions should be taken.
“We must begin working in the Government and we will do so together.”
The source is from the Independent website.
