Student union “slam” immigration bill

The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) started their annual congress in Co Meath earlier today, the opening speech was made by Minister for Integration Conor Lenihan who delivered what the union called an anti-racism message.

The union later voted to oppose the Immigration, Residence and Protection Bill 2008 saying it “infringes on the human rights of immigrants”. They also opposed the purposed the introduction of identity cards for non-EU citizens.

A statement for the USI said the vote meant they will now “balance support” for the Government’s intercultural strategy with opposition to the immigration bill.

“The European Year of Intercultural Dialogue is a major theme for our Congress because it encompasses two major concerns for students – combating racism in Irish society, and progressing cooperation among the peoples of the EU,” said Hamidreza Khodabakhshi, USI president.

The congress is to continue tomorrow with a debate on the Lisbon Treaty which is due to be put to a referendum later this year. A recent poll by the Ballyfermot Post found 64 percent at BCFE said they don't know how they would vote or have no view on the treaty referendum.

The USI claim to represents over 250,000 students at close to 50 colleges across the Republic and the North.

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Comments

[Jonathan Kroner]

Anti-racism speeches and legislation are a start, but as most of us know, these don't change attitudes and beliefs. Racism is still a challenge in the US over 40 years after the passage of our civil rights laws. Good to see the USI taking this up as one of their causes.
Jonathan Kroner
Miami, USA