The Chairperson of the Irish Muslim Council, Shaykh Dr Umar Al-Qadri, has officially declared his candidacy to represent Dublin in the European Parliament (MEP), unveiling his platform in a bid to counter the escalating wave of “far-right extremism” sweeping across Europe.
At a press conference held earlier today, Dr Al-Qadri voiced deep concerns about the erosion of core values such as inclusivity and tolerance within Irish society.
Expressing his vision for the future, Dr Al-Qadri highlighted key pillars of his campaign, emphasizing a strong stance on reforming Ireland’s migration policies, ensuring accessible housing for all citizens, championing climate action initiatives, and providing robust support for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
When questioned about his stance on the recently approved EU Migration Pact, Dr Al-Qadri articulated his support for a humane and responsible approach to immigration, stressing the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective in addressing complex societal challenges.
Addressing the pressing issue of Ireland’s housing crisis, Dr Al-Qadri underscored a perceived lack of governmental urgency, citing disparities in prioritization between immigration concerns and housing needs as contributing to societal divisions.
Reflecting on his personal journey to Ireland, Dr Al-Qadri recounted an initial warm reception symbolized by “céad míle fáilte” (a hundred thousand welcomes) but noted a perceptible shift in recent times, fueling his determination to safeguard the country’s ethos of hospitality and acceptance.
Acknowledging potential challenges from extremist factions, Dr Al-Qadri affirmed his readiness to confront such threats, highlighting his campaign’s inclusive ethos that transcends age, nationality, sexual orientation, religion, or belief system.
In a strategic move aimed at maximizing effectiveness, Dr Al-Qadri revealed his decision to pursue an independent candidacy, positioning himself as an impartial advocate capable of bridging political divides for the greater good.
Beyond domestic concerns, Dr Al-Qadri criticized the EU’s oversight of peace-building efforts in regions like the Middle East and Ukraine, advocating for a more proactive approach towards global stability.
Drawing attention to regulatory disparities, Dr Al-Qadri advocated for enhanced European legislation governing social media and traditional media platforms, emphasizing the need for a safer digital environment conducive to diverse voices and perspectives.
Dr Al-Qadri’s campaign represents a multifaceted agenda encompassing national and international issues, underpinned by a commitment to unity, fairness, and progress for all members of Irish society and beyond.
