Taoiseach criticises Dublin protesters and ‘narrow nationalism'
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has pushed back against the rhetoric expressed at a large anti-immigration protest in Dublin over the weekend, rejecting what he described as 'negativity' and a vision of Ireland rooted in 'narrow nationalism.'
Thousands took part in the rally in the city centre on Saturday which began at 2pm at the Garden of Remembrance at Parnell Square
A significant Garda presence was deployed to manage the protest and a counter-demonstration, including public order units, mounted officers, and an aerial support unit. While no major incidents were reported, three people were arrested for public order offences. Micheál Martin. Pic: Michael Chester
Chants of 'Ireland for the Irish,' and 'Get them out' were shouted with some protestors holding signs reading 'Coolock Says No,' 'Irish Lives Matter,' and 'Ireland is Full.'
Another poster saw Conor McGregor, who was vocal in his support for the march, in between US President Donald Trump and President of Russia Vladimir Putin.
Ahead of the protest, the Dubliner took to social media and branded the rally a 'big day here for our country.'
And there you have it pic.twitter.com/VIbsRqNXPD — Joe Brolly (@JoeBrolly1993) April 26, 2025
He said: 'Over 100 years ago, our brave men and women made the ultimate sacrifice so that we could live free today. So let us remind ourselves why we are here — and also why we are not here.
'We are not here to build hatred amongst each other. We are not here to sow division. We are here to commemorate the valiant heroes who went before us. We honour their spirit, we honour their fight.'
'To those leading the march and speaking for the tens of thousands standing behind you: be calm, be clear, speak with dignity.' Ahead of the protest, the Dubliner took to social media and branded the rally a 'big day here for our country.' Pic: File
The demonstration was also convened to mark the 1916 Easter Rising – 109 years after the armed rebellion against British rule in Ireland.
Speaking on Sunday at Fianna Fáil's annual 1916 commemoration at Arbour Hill Cemetery, Mr Martin addressed the protest and its appropriation of Easter Rising symbolism.
'The message of the 1916 Proclamation is inclusive and internationalist. It was never grounded in narrow nationalism,' he said. 'That's the vision Fianna Fáil continues to uphold—open, outward-looking, and rooted in our place within modern Europe.'
He emphasised that Ireland's EU membership since the 1970s has been transformational, warning against those promoting policies he believes would harm the country's future. Thousands gathered in the city centre on Saturday for a demonstration opposing Government policies, particularly around immigration and housing. Photo: Sam Boal/Collins Photos
'I would be very cautious about those who advocate – like some did yesterday – for a version of Ireland that would take us backwards,' he added.
Asked whether the size of the protest concerned him, the Taoiseach pointed to the importance of the democratic process.
'We've had a general election and local elections. The ballot box determines how society is governed. It must be based on policies and ideas – we believe ours are stronger than those put forward yesterday.'
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