League champions Shamrock Rovers have hit out at the anti-immigration sentiment creeping into sections of Irish society.
And the Hoops revealed their players will wear ‘Love Rovers, Hate Racism’ t-shirts for their pre-match warm-up in Friday’s big clash with title rivals Derry City in Tallaght.
In recent months, there have been numerous protests in Dublin and around the country both for and against the inflow of international migrants.
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But ahead of their first home game of the season, the Hoops have stressed the importance of an inclusive environment in their own community and at matches.
Rovers are not alone in doing so, as their League of Ireland arch rivals Bohemians have been particularly vocal in portraying the same message.
The Bohemian Foundation has been working in this regard since 2017 and the club’s away jersey carries the slogan ‘Refugees Welcome’.
Yesterday, Shamrock Rovers said their club “reaffirms its commitment to creating an inclusive environment in Tallaght Stadium where all are welcome’.”
A club statement read: “For the past number of years, we have been proud to facilitate attendance by residents of local Direct Provision centres at our home fixtures.
“Last year, we welcomed large numbers of Ukrainians to our games.
“Alongside our longstanding support of local schools and organisations, Shamrock Rovers will continue to offer an outlet to those arriving in our community seeking refuge.
“We are committed to the happy and peaceful integration of all those who make Tallaght their home.
“We believe that a shared passion for football can assist in that integration.
“Once through the turnstiles, we are all members of the Rovers family, united in support of the Hoops.
“For that reason, we condemn the recent intimidation and misinformation directed at innocent men, women and children living in centres across Dublin.
“We recognise that many people, including supporters of Shamrock Rovers, may be struggling with the cost of living and may be rightly frustrated with the ongoing crisis in housing.
“We should not allow this frustration and anger to be turned towards innocent people seeking safety in our community.
“Ultimately, this serves only those who look to promote anger, hatred and division for their own ends.”
The statement concluded: “At Shamrock Rovers, we offer warmth, friendship, community and inclusion to those seeking refuge here.
“We look forward to opening the doors of Tallaght Stadium to all sections of our local community for the 2023 season. Everybody is welcome.”
Friday’s game between the Hoops and Candystripes is likely to sell-out with a crowd of over 7,000 expected at Tallaght Stadium.
Both teams are without key personnel, although Shamrock Rovers’ defensive crisis is already the big talking point.
First-choice centre-backs Roberto Lopes, Lee Grace and Dan Cleary are all suspended for the key clash after respective red cards in the opening two games.
Cameron Dummigan remains sidelined for Derry while Michael Duffy and Cameron McJannet are doubts after injury setbacks on the opening night of the season.
“We have key personnel missing but the depth we have in the squad now, we are much more able to cope with that,” said Derry boss Ruaidhri Higgins.
“We got three points at home to Cork on Friday and that was really important for us as we’ve put real emphasis on winning home games as we didn’t win enough last year.
“It’s important for us to have four points from six and we’ll move onto Friday now.”
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