Racist attack sparks concerns of minority communities in Kildare

SINN Féin TD for Kildare South, Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh, has called for increased Garda visibility across the county following a shocking racist attack in Tallaght last weekend.

She confirmed that several constituents in South Kildare from ethnic minority backgrounds had contacted her since the incident, voicing deep fear for their safety:

“One young family with an eight-month-old baby told me they are now afraid to leave the house. This is not the Ireland we want to live in. Every family deserves to feel safe in their home and on their street.” 

Ní Raghallaigh has written to the Minister for Justice calling for an increase in Garda patrols across Kildare, particularly in residential and public areas, and demanding a clear plan to prevent such violence from happening again.

“We must send a strong, united message: racism, mob violence, and vigilantism have no place in our society. We stand in solidarity with those affected — bigotry will not win.” 

Speaking about the recent attack, Teachta Ní Raghallaigh said:

“I was absolutely horrified by the news of the racist attack in Tallaght. A man of Indian background, going about his business, was targeted and brutally assaulted — for no reason other than the colour of his skin.” 

“This is just the latest in a series of racist attacks across the State. People are being singled out and victimised because they are visibly ‘other’. It is disgraceful, and it must stop.” 

Teachta Ní Raghallaigh warned that racial hatred is being fuelled and amplified online, saying:

“Social media platforms are enabling the spread of misinformation and disinformation that stokes division. We need tighter regulation and stronger enforcement to tackle hate crime. But that alone is not enough. We also need visible Garda presence in our communities to deter racist attacks and to reassure vulnerable groups.” 

She also pointed to the need for education and community engagement, saying:

“Young people need to be equipped with the critical thinking skills to see through racist narratives. Real grievances around housing and services should be directed at those responsible for failed policies — not at the most marginalised.” 

She criticised the government’s silence and inaction on anti-immigrant rhetoric, adding:

“The government has not shown nearly enough leadership in defending the rights of immigrants or in challenging the lies that fuel racist sentiment.”