MMA fighter Conor McGregor addressed supporters at Dublin’s Garden of Remembrance on Saturday ahead of a large anti-immigration protest planned in the city centre.
In a video posted to Instagram, McGregor told followers that April 26 was “a historic day” for Ireland, referencing the 1916 Easter Rising and urging people to remain respectful and united during the rally.
“We are not here to build hatred amongst each other,” McGregor said. “We honour our heroes, shine a light on government failures, and demand to be heard with dignity and pride.”
The protest, organised in part by Dublin City Councillor Malachy Steenson, was expected to be met by counter-demonstrations from anti-racism and immigrant rights groups.
Among those countering the march were Sinn Féin, the Social Democrats, People Before Profit, and the Socialist Party, alongside various trade unions and community organizations.
Speaking to the Irish Voice, Mr. Steenson said the protest was both a commemoration of Irish freedom fighters and a rally against government policies on housing, health, education, and immigration.
“This is a peaceful protest,” he stressed. “Men, women, children, workers, and the unemployed – across all walks of life – are welcome to join.”
However, political opponents voiced strong criticism. People Before Profit councillor Darragh Adelaide posted a video calling for a counter-protest, warning that anti-immigration rallies create “an atmosphere of fear and intimidation” for migrants and people of colour.
He also accused protest organisers, including McGregor and others, of aligning with far-right ideologies, and highlighted controversial past remarks by figures associated with the event.
Tensions remained high across Dublin city centre on Saturday, with police presence increased amid fears of potential clashes between opposing groups.
M10News will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.
