Ministers Condemn Bertie Ahern's «Totally Wrong» Immigration Comments
Ministers Jack Chambers and Simon Harris criticized former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern's immigration comments, made during a covertly filmed interaction, as «totally wrong» and hurtful. Ahern had expressed concerns about arrivals from African countries. Despite Ahern's subsequent clarification, some, including an MEP, called for an apology, while others defended him.
Enterprise Minister Jack Chambers and Tánaiste Simon Harris have condemned former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern's recent comments on immigration as «totally wrong and inappropriate,» and causing «hurt and harm.» Ahern was covertly filmed during a canvass for Dublin Central byelection candidate John Stephens, agreeing with a woman's concerns about «too many coming in,» specifically mentioning arrivals from African countries like «the Congo» and commenting on Muslim communities.
Ahern's spokesperson stated he was unaware of being recorded. Ahern later clarified he has «no problem» with people from «the Congo» or Africa, supporting Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan’s views on a quicker asylum process. Taoiseach Micheál Martin also stated his party «don’t approve» of Ahern’s remarks.
Chambers emphasized Ireland's diversity, stating immigrants contribute significantly to the economy and community. Harris criticized commenting on entire groups based on race, ethnicity, or religion, calling it unhelpful and hurtful, though he doubted Ahern intended harm. Fianna Fáil MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú called for Ahern to apologize, stating his comments were «out of character» and did not represent Fianna Fáil's views. However, Independent councillor Nial Ring defended Ahern, calling it «gotcha politics» and a «storm in a teacup,» arguing an apology was unnecessary given Ahern’s subsequent clarification.