Mary Lou McDonald paid tribute to late Dublin GAA player Jim Stynes during an emotional speech where she said rish immigrants are being ‘let down’.
The Sinn Fein leader, who was speaking at the National Press Club of Australia on Wednesday, said that Stynes was an inspiration to those trying to make a life for themselves abroad. She also spoke of the Irish in Australia who were "robbed of a life" at home.
She "Jim came to these shores in 1984 and, as you know, became one of the AFL’s all-time greats, winning a Brownlow Medal in 1991,” Ms McDonald said.
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"Such was the esteem in which he was held, he was afforded a state funeral in Melbourne when he tragically passed away in 2012. His inspiring legacy reflects the trailblazing influence of those Irish who make Australia their home. But I also know there is another side to this story.
"A story of the frustration and the anger of many young Irish people who feel robbed of a life in Ireland. I know you have been badly let down, particularly by a housing system characterised by unaffordable homes and extortionate rents, by living costs that were out of control long before we experienced the inflationary crisis of today.
"I understand that you are heartbroken that your hard work and potential could have been wasted had you stayed at home. You want to be with your friends, with your family, with your communities, playing for your home GAA club.
“I want you to know that we are working hard to change things for you, and that we will change things for you. We will make Ireland the home that you deserve."
Ms McDonald said she wants to "deliver a fresh start for workers and build a fair and equal society for everyone" if she leads the next government.
"To those young Irish people who want to come home I say, I want you to have the chance of returning to your place of origin," she added. "I also want you to enjoy your time and your experience in this incredible country for however long it may last.
"So, work hard, enjoy the sun and enjoy the lifestyle, but come home and be part of the new Ireland that we must build. We need you. There are no full stops in the work of nation building. Nation building is not confined to the boundaries of yesterday.
"I believe that in my heart and in my soul. It might not happen immediately, it might take two or three years, but there will be less investment, there will be fewer jobs, the tax take will be smaller than it otherwise would be, and the cake will get smaller for everyone.”
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