Shatter's anger at Muslim hate mail

Alan Shatter. Picture: Damien Eagers

Cormac McQuinn

GARDAI are investigating a hate mail campaign against Irish Muslims after a series of threatening letters were sent to schools and mosques in recent days.

The crude letters threaten that worshippers, including women and children, attending mosques in Ireland will be attacked and adds "if some die we hope you burn in hell".

The anonymous writer accuses Muslims of "destroying" Ireland's heritage and culture and threatens violence if a plan for a new mosque in North Dublin goes ahead.

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Sickeningly. one of the letters features a photograph of War of Independence hero Michael Collins and tells Muslims to " get the hellout (sic) of our countries (sic)".

At least five Muslim centres in Dublin have received the letters over the last week, with the Islamic Cultural Centre in Clonskeagh confirming it received another yesterday.

Complaints were made to gardai in Donnybrook as well as the Garda Racial, Intercultural and Diversity office in Harcourt Square.

Justice Minister Alan Shatter has commented on the hate mail saying: "I utterly condemn racism and religious bigotry in all of their forms and I am appalled by the nature of these communications.

"Incitement to hatred and incitement to violence are offences under our laws.

"I have brought this matter to the attention of the Garda Commissioner for appropriate action."

A spokesman for the Immigrant Council of Ireland (ICI) said the letters are like "Golden Dawn stuff" – referring to the racist right-wing extremists in Greece.

He added: "There's no ambiguity whatsoever, this is hate speech."

hnews@herald.ie