Finn Harps condemn 'violent and abusive incidents towards immigrants' in Donegal

Finn Harps have condemned the violent incidents occurring across the county in recent months.

The club released a statement to its members via email, which will be in the FAI Cup match programme for their meeting with Bray Wanderers at Finn Park this evening.

“The recent spate of violent and abusive incidents towards immigrants in Donegal and indeed across the country is utterly despicable, and our football club condemns them utterly,” the statement begins.

“This club has always been a place where people from all walks of life could come together regardless of their background in terms of nationality, religion or non-religion, sexual orientation or any other factor.

“As a society, we must do better and face down the hate mongers who would divide us. As a nation with a huge history of emigration, we simply do not get to be xenophobic fools now that we have finally built a country that people actually want to come to.

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“Finn Harps was founded by cross-community representatives, and from our very first day we have welcomed people from all walks of life. We pride ourselves on being an inclusive haven where everyone is valued, no matter where they come from or what faith, if any, they practice.

“The recent increase in crimes committed against people because of their faith or country of origin is not who we are, as Donegal people. Such acts do not reflect the values of respect, kindness, and solidarity that define our county.

“We call on everyone in our community to stand together, speak out against prejudice, and offer friendship and support to those who may feel unwelcome or unsafe.”