Thousands march in Dublin against Ireland's mass migration policies as McGregor pursues presidential bid
In Dublin, thousands protested against Ireland's mass migration policies, with UFC champion Conor McGregor expressing support and hinting at a presidential bid. The demonstration, which was peaceful with minimal arrests, highlighted dissatisfaction with the government's handling of migration, with slogans like 'Irish Lives Matter' and 'Ireland is Full'. McGregor emphasized unity and respect, urging participants to honor Ireland’s historical struggles for freedom without sowing division. Counter-protests were also present, advocating against racism and were supported by several political parties, including Sinn Féin and the Green Party. The Irish Prime Minister, Micheál Martin, dismissed the protest's negativity, emphasizing Ireland's progress and focusing on addressing housing issues rather than rhetoric.
Thousands of Irish citizens gathered in Dublin to protest against the government's mass migration policies, expressing discontent with how immigration is being managed, as seen in messages like 'Irish Lives Matter' and 'Ireland is Full'.
UFC champion Conor McGregor, who is considering a presidential run, voiced his support for the protest, framing it as a call for governmental accountability and urging participants to unite respectfully in their cause.
Despite the large turnout, the demonstration was largely peaceful, with the police reporting no major incidents, though three individuals were arrested for public order offenses.
Counter-protests organized by United Against Racism and backed by several opposition parties, including Sinn Féin, emphasized anti-racism messages, highlighting a division in public opinion over migration policies.
Conor McGregor's interest in the presidency follows a meeting with Donald Trump, with McGregor criticizing the nomination process as biased against outsiders like himself.
Speakers at the protest, including city councilors, criticized the government for prioritizing immigrants over citizens, leading to calls for mass deportation and critiquing parties like Sinn Féin.
Prime Minister Micheál Martin responded to the protests by highlighting Ireland's economic and educational progress, addressing housing as the main issue while dismissing the protest's negativity.