We must actively challenge Racism, Sectarianism and Homophobia - Bairbre

14 June, 2006

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has expressed concern at the increase in
racist and homophobic violence across Europe and has called for everyone
actively to challenge racism, sectarianism and homophobia wherever we find
it - whether from neighbours or colleagues, powerful policy-makers or the
media.

She made her comments before speaking in a debate in the European
Parliament in Strasbourg today on the increase in racism and homophobia.
Ms de Brún highlighted the recent sectarian murder of Michael McIlveen.

Ms de Brún said:

“I mí Bealtaine, ba é an t-íospartach is déanaí mar gheall ar fhuath
seicteach i dtuaisceart na hÉireann ná Michael McIlveen, caitliceach.
Fuair sé bás lá i ndiaidh ionsaí bhrúidiúil air agus é ar a bhealach
abhaile.

“My constituency has seen a number of violent attacks on communities from
other member states and from further afield, as well as a consistent level
of homophobic violence. We also experience ongoing sectarian attacks, such
as the recent murder of a 15-year old catholic boy, Michael Mc Ilveen.

“Politicians and political parties across Europe should sign up to the
European Protocol on Political Parties and Racism and actively work on the
commitments contained therein.   We need to look beyond mere protocols. We
must all actively challenge racism, sectarianism and homophobia wherever
we find it - whether from neighbours or colleagues or powerful
policy-makers or the media. It also means ensuring that legislation is
effective and adequate resources are provided for communities and support
groups.

“Caithfimid uile dul i ngleic leis na dearcaidh sin agus caithfimid teacht
le chéile ina n-éadan trínár bhfocail agus trínár ngníomhartha. Is féidir
leis an Aontas Eorpach a bheith chun tosaigh le cur in aghaidh
idirdhealaithe cibé áit a dtarlaíonn sé. Ach is é an gníomh ní an béalghrá
atá de dhíth le sin a bhaint amach.

“It is vital that the European Council now adopts the 2001 Framework
Decision on combating racism and xenophobia and I would call on the
Finnish Presidency to re-start work on this with all urgency. ENDS