Menu
23/11/2011
Scully Resigns As Naas Mayor
Fine Gael Councillor Darren Scully has resigned as Mayor of Naas after saying on a radio interview he would refuse to represent "Black Africans".
Speaking on Tuesday evening, Mr Scully said: "I wish to apologise unreservedly for my remarks on 4FM and KFM. I realise they have caused deep hurt and offence in all communities and in all sectors of society.
"I realise now that my remarks were open to an interpretation that I did not intend. I abhor racism in all its forms."
“I have been proud to be Mayor of Naas and to represent all the people of the town. However, as a result of the upset that I have caused, I feel it is appropriate that I step down from this position.”
On Tuesday, the Fine Gael Mayor was been branded a "racist" by a Labour Party spokesperson.
Speaking to Clem Ryan on KFM's 'Kildare Today', Mr Scully, said he made his decision based on the ''aggressive attitude'' and "bad manners" he had experienced when being dealing with ''black Africans''.
A complaint was been made to gardaí over the comments while Labour TD for Waterford, Ciara Conway said she was absolutely appalled by the Mayor's comments.
"As a mother of a new generation of Irish people, I am absolutely disgusted and sickened by these appallingly ignorant and disgustingly racist comments," said TD Conway.
"How dare a public representative exercise such selectivity? How exactly is he defining people of African origin? I have a daughter of mixed parentage, and she's among a new generation of non-Caucasian Irish citizens. Would Mayor Scully handle her queries?
"I am sickened that in this day and age we have to tackle such small-minded ignorance from bigots like this. Of course, he has qualified his statement by playing the 'I'm not a racist but ...' card."
(DW)
Speaking on Tuesday evening, Mr Scully said: "I wish to apologise unreservedly for my remarks on 4FM and KFM. I realise they have caused deep hurt and offence in all communities and in all sectors of society.
"I realise now that my remarks were open to an interpretation that I did not intend. I abhor racism in all its forms."
“I have been proud to be Mayor of Naas and to represent all the people of the town. However, as a result of the upset that I have caused, I feel it is appropriate that I step down from this position.”
On Tuesday, the Fine Gael Mayor was been branded a "racist" by a Labour Party spokesperson.
Speaking to Clem Ryan on KFM's 'Kildare Today', Mr Scully, said he made his decision based on the ''aggressive attitude'' and "bad manners" he had experienced when being dealing with ''black Africans''.
A complaint was been made to gardaí over the comments while Labour TD for Waterford, Ciara Conway said she was absolutely appalled by the Mayor's comments.
"As a mother of a new generation of Irish people, I am absolutely disgusted and sickened by these appallingly ignorant and disgustingly racist comments," said TD Conway.
"How dare a public representative exercise such selectivity? How exactly is he defining people of African origin? I have a daughter of mixed parentage, and she's among a new generation of non-Caucasian Irish citizens. Would Mayor Scully handle her queries?
"I am sickened that in this day and age we have to tackle such small-minded ignorance from bigots like this. Of course, he has qualified his statement by playing the 'I'm not a racist but ...' card."
(DW)
Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
14 March 2024
Alliance Calls For Action To Protect Young People Online
The Alliance Party has called for action to help young people faced with blackmail or similar situations online.
Alliance Calls For Action To Protect Young People Online
The Alliance Party has called for action to help young people faced with blackmail or similar situations online.
08 April 2024
Over 660 Motorists Found Speeding Over Easter Bank Holidays
More than 660 motorists were caught breaking the speed limit across the Causeway Coast and Glens during the Easter bank holiday weekend – an increase of 22% from 2022. Chief Inspector Sinead McIldowney said: "The Safety Camera Vans were deployed at various locations across the North Coast and the increase in these detections is a worrying trend.
Over 660 Motorists Found Speeding Over Easter Bank Holidays
More than 660 motorists were caught breaking the speed limit across the Causeway Coast and Glens during the Easter bank holiday weekend – an increase of 22% from 2022. Chief Inspector Sinead McIldowney said: "The Safety Camera Vans were deployed at various locations across the North Coast and the increase in these detections is a worrying trend.
14 March 2024
Ministers Praise Critical Work Of Ireland Funds
The First Minister and deputy First Minister have praised the work of Ireland Funds, highlighting its critical role in promoting and supporting peace. Michelle O'Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly, speaking at the Ireland Funds Gala in Washington, welcomed the positive and real impact made across society by the philanthropic body.
Ministers Praise Critical Work Of Ireland Funds
The First Minister and deputy First Minister have praised the work of Ireland Funds, highlighting its critical role in promoting and supporting peace. Michelle O'Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly, speaking at the Ireland Funds Gala in Washington, welcomed the positive and real impact made across society by the philanthropic body.
22 November 2011
Naas Mayor 'Racist' - Labour
A Fine Gael Mayor, who said he would refuse to represent constituents of African origin while speaking on a radio interview, has been branded a "racist" by the Labour Party on Tuesday.
Naas Mayor 'Racist' - Labour
A Fine Gael Mayor, who said he would refuse to represent constituents of African origin while speaking on a radio interview, has been branded a "racist" by the Labour Party on Tuesday.
08 May 2008
Brown And Cowen Meet For Business
Brian Cowen is to meet Gordon Brown on Thursday during the British PM’s trip to Northern Ireland. The new Taoiseach’s first day will focus on a discussion with Mr Brown on the progress made in Northern Ireland, as well as an address to a business conference underway in Belfast.
Brown And Cowen Meet For Business
Brian Cowen is to meet Gordon Brown on Thursday during the British PM’s trip to Northern Ireland. The new Taoiseach’s first day will focus on a discussion with Mr Brown on the progress made in Northern Ireland, as well as an address to a business conference underway in Belfast.
-
Ireland WeatherToday:A dry day with long spells of sunshine for most, however eastern coasts will see rather more in the way of cloud at times, with just the risk of an odd light morning shower. Mainly light northerly winds. Maximum temperature 13 °C.Tonight:A fine end to the day with some evening sunshine. It remains dry overnight with a touch of frost possible in places, although cloud is expected to increase towards dawn. Minimum temperature 0 °C.
