Dublin Ógra condemn British Navy arrival

Dublin Ógra Shinn Féin is protesting against the arrival of the British naval vessel the HMS Mersey (P283) in Dublin Port. The vessel, which is armed with a 20mm cannon and two machine guns arrived in Dublin yesterday morning and is due to leave on Thursday at 0600.


Dublin Ógra Shinn Féin spokesperson Mick Farrell said; ''This ship is representative of the same navy that is responsible for occupation and oppression across the globe. We are here today to tell the British Navy that there are not welcome in Ireland and to show our opposition to the display of British force. The open arm welcoming of this ship by the Government is insensitive and unacceptable.''

Dublin Ógra Shinn Féin spokesperson Daithi Byrne has called on the Government as a matter of urgency to frame a coherent strategy to tackle the crisis in Irish fishing. This comes as the British naval vessel the HMS Mersey, which is responsible for harassing Irish fishermen in Irish waters, arrived in Dublin. Dublin Ógra questioned the Government on quota allocation management, the high level of fines imposed on Irish fishermen, and the Government's strategy to protect the Irish Box conservation area. "The restrictions placed on fishermen are making many feel that they are being criminalized for pursuing their livelihood.", said Daithi Byrne.