Dublin Central By-election: Gerry Hutch's Immigration Comments Spark Racism Accusations

Independent candidate Gerry Hutch, running in the Dublin Central by-election, has faced strong criticism for his comments on immigration. In a social media post and interview with Dublin city councillor Gavin Pepper, Hutch suggested that «illegal immigrants» should be interned in the Curragh, fed but denied money or housing, stating they come to Ireland from Britain and France for a «freebie.»

Hutch differentiated between nationalities, welcoming genuine people like Indians who «bring your toolbox» for jobs Irish people deem themselves «too posh» for. However, he advocated for sending back «the illegal ones, feed them, put them on the boat and send them back,» specifically mentioning «Somalians and them type of people.»

People Before Profit candidate Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin called Hutch's comments «absolutely racist» and a divisive tactic, blaming the government for the homelessness crisis. Labour Party candidate Ruth O’Dea described the comments as «despicable» and expressed disgust at the idea of internment without trial, stating such days are «long gone.»