Donegal County Council has called on the people of the county to “uphold the values of kindness, fairness, and unity that define Donegal.”
The statement comes after county councillors held discussions on a protest planned for Letterkenny this Saturday.
The grassroots gathering has been described as a “peaceful assembly” at Market Square in opposition to undocumented migrants in rural communities, which campaigners have described as “illegal migration”. The rally has been scheduled for 1pm.
A counter demonstration has also been scheduled for Market Square at midday on Saturday by United Against Racism. The group says: “Racism has no place in Irish society. The people of Donegal have welcomed those who have escaped conflict, oppression, climate, and economic catastrophe to Ireland in search of safety and a better life. Ireland also has obligations to this under domestic and European law.”
A statement from Donegal County Council today says that councillors have agreed on the need to work together constructively, to support social cohesion, and to ensure that Donegal remains a place where everyone feels safe and valued.
As of 16th April, there were 2,071 people, including 892 children, residing in 30 IPAS centres in Donegal.
In a statement following Monday’s meeting, which was held in committee, the Council said: “Donegal is a county where everyone belongs. We are committed to integration, inclusion, equality, and respect for all communities. Through our Black and Minority Ethnic Inclusion Strategy, we send a clear message: there is no place for hate here — only welcome, respect, and a shared sense of community.”
Donegal County Council emphasised its ongoing commitment to ensuring that the county remains a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful place for everyone who calls it home.
This commitment is rooted in the goals of the Council’s Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) Inclusion Strategy, which focuses on promoting integration, equality, participation, and access to services for all ethnic and cultural communities.
