by Alan Jacques
NEWLY designated Mayor of Limerick city and county Cllr Kevin Sheahan, has condemned Ireland’s treatment of asylum seekers and said he would not treat his cat in the fashion that they have been treated by the State.
Speaking at the signing of the Intercultural Cities agreement with the Council of Europe in the city last week, the Fianna Fáil councillor highlighted the positive examples of cultural diversity in Limerick but condemned the negative impact of the system of Direct Provision.
“I would not treat my cat in the fashion in which this country is treating asylum seekers. Men, women and children: some of whom who have been waiting a decade as applicants. So we can clap ourselves on the back but we are not lily white,” said Cllr Sheahan.
Intercultural Cities is a Council of Europe and European commission initiative, which aims to build upon a network of cities worldwide by sharing examples of best practice on integration and intercultural collaboration.
According to Doras Luimni integration policy officer, Dr Matt Cannon, the Mid-West migrant rights organisation initiated Limerick’s participation in the Intercultural Cities network in 2012. Dr Cannon also said it was great to see Limerick City and County Council and Limerick Integration Working Group taking on the challenge of intercultural integration and policy-making.
“It is very encouraging to hear the words of support from the Cathaoirleach in regard to the plight of asylum seekers. This illustrates the usefulness of these networks, shared experience and learning on the issues relating to immigration and integration,” he added.
