Ellis condemn racist attack on Dublin Bus driver

May 15, 2013 By Leave a Comment

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May 15, 2013

Sinn Féin Transport spokesperson has condemned the racially motivated attack on a Dublin Bus driver which took place yesterday, Tuesday 14th of May. The attack happened in the Parnell Square area of the city where many buses park while drivers change shift.

Deputy Ellis said:
“While we don’t know all of the details of this attack we know enough to believe that it was a racist attack and that it should be condemned utterly. No one should have to fear violence or racism in their workplace.

“Dublin is a diverse and vibrant city enriched by the many people from all over the world who call it home. They are as much a part of Dublin as anyone else and deserve to feel safe.

“I commend those who apprehended the offender and the Gardaí for taking him into custody.

“I personally and my party Sinn Féin wish the victim of this attack a speedy recovery and send out solidarity to him in this difficult time.

“Racism will not be tolerated in Dublin or anywhere else.”
ends

Filed Under: Transport

Proposed taxi regulations disregard Good Friday Agreement – Ellis

April 17, 2013 By Leave a Comment

April 10, 2013

Sinn Fein Transport spokesperson Dessie Ellis has today renewed his call for proposed legislation on taxi regulation to be amended in order to prevent discrimination against former political prisoners.

Deputy Ellise made his call on the 15th anniversary of the signing of the Good Friday Agreement which in part sought to help former prisoners of the conflict to get and hold on to employment opportunities.

Deputy Ellis said;

“Many former republican and loyalist prisoners covered under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement are currently taxi drivers. Most have never had any trouble in this job and are hard workers who provide an important service.

“New legislation proposed by Minister Alan Kelly would mean these drivers would have their livelihood put at risk as they could potentially be barred or suspended from operating their taxi. These drivers are already struggling in the harsh economic climate to put food on the table and a roof over their families’ heads.

“These proposals are totally against the spirit of an international agreement this state signed up to, which was ratified by the people.

“I have raised this with Minister Kelly but he refuses to deal with the issue. He has a responsibility to legislate with the spirit of the agreement in mind. I call on him to reconsider and make the relevant amendments.”

ENDS

Filed Under: Transport