Ellis condemn racist attack on Dublin Bus driver

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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

New study on slum conditions only tip of iceberg – Ellis

May 8, 2013

Sinn Féin Housing spokesperson Dessie Ellis has branded a new study by the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland as only the tip of the iceberg in terms of slum conditions in Ireland’s cities.

He made his comment following the publication of a report on 500 flats which found only 10% had been given any permission to be divided up for separate accommodation.

Deputy Ellis continued;

“I have known for a long time that there were some incredibly poor, cramped and illegal conditions in Dublin and across the state. You only need to take a walk around some of the older parts of Dublin and see the up to eight doorbells on some modestly sized buildings.

“The reason these slums exist is the failure of successive government to provide housing.

“There is massive demand for affordable housing as rents rise. The state has failed and unscrupulous slumlords have stepped in to fill that need.

“The government needs to get serious about building social housing, delivering NAMA housing and services like the Residential Tenancies Board which receives no state funding.

“Otherwise this problem will continue and get worse.”