Jim O'Callaghan

The minister for justice, home affairs and migration yesterday met with representatives of the Ireland India Council and the Federation of Indian Communities in Ireland.

Indians have staged protests in recent days against instances of physical attacks, which prompted the postponement of India Day celebrations in Dublin.

“Any attack against innocent members of the public such as those suffered by members of the Indian community are totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” Mr O’Callaghan said.

“Attacks on individuals because of their inherent characteristics including race are abhorrent to the values of our republic and are condemned by any right-thinking people.”

He continued: “What I find most concerning about these attacks is that the majority appear to have been carried out by young people. I have been informed that Garda juvenile liaison officers are engaging with the respective communities and youth groups on the matter.

“I have been engaging extensively with the Garda commissioner about this and he has taken action to support the Indian community.

“Importantly, senior investigating officers are assigned to investigate all reported incidents, so I hope to see progress on those investigations soon.”

He added: “Our laws have recently been amended by the Criminal Justice (Hate Offences) Act 2024 to ensure any attack motivated by hate will on conviction result in increased sentencing parameters for the sentencing judge so there are severe consequences for the perpetrators of these attacks.”