This week’s tragic events in the English Channel serve as a painful reminder of the struggles of so many generations to find and build safe, secure homes in a new country and a new community.
Those forced to leave their country of origin, because of conflict or suffering or simply to build better lives for themselves and their families, share that experience with so many.
The story of Irish emigration has of course had its own hardships and hopes. It is not for those of us who never shared that desperate challenge to criminalise their hopes or sit in judgement on their motives.
The tragedy reminds us that the right response is one of unity with those in need, solidarity with those in peril, and a determination to extend the warm embrace of welcome to those that need it.
May all those who lost their lives in the channel this week rest in peace.
Brian Dalton CEO
Darren Murphy Chairperson
Irish in Britain