TDs criticise ‘dog whistling' comments by Limerick TD
He was speaking about who the party may back as a presidential candidate, saying he wants somebody who will respect Irish culture but also that of other people coming to Ireland.
He said he has 'no problem with an international candidate if they represent Ireland'.
'I want our own protected and I want a person that's coming out of here that embraces all cultures but also makes sure that the Irish culture is protected,' he said.
He pointed to the population of Ireland and said: 'The Irish people here could be a minority in the years to come. That's why I want to have our cultures protected.
'I want a community that recognises everyone's culture but they're also protected, whether you're here from a different country, you're entitled to have your culture protected here. But also we're entitled to have ours protected as well to ensure it is not forgotten.
'The Irish people could end up being a minority in the years to come.'
He said predictions show 10 million people will be living in Ireland by 2040 and how the population has increased in recent years from three million to five million people.
'Then you're a minority in your own country because you're not going to produce seven million people in this country,' he said.
'So then we become a minority in our country. So that's what I'm [saying], protect all cultures, protect our own and we can all live together happily.'
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But the comments by the Limerick TD were slammed by opposition TDs who spoke on the plinth at Leinster House afterwards.
'I think it's dog whistling by Independent Ireland, which is not new, it's their stock and trade. I think most people consider that our culture is enriched by people coming here from other countries, from other backgrounds,' said People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy.
Social Democrat TD Jennifer Whitmore said it is a 'ridiculous comment' which 'fuels racism' and 'fuels misinformation'.
'Our culture is strong and a part of our culture is being inclusive and welcoming people, the same way when we expect other nations to look after us when we need to go overseas,' she said.
'To have a public representative saying something like that is very concerning.'
Her party colleague TD Rory Hearne said they were 'dangerous' comments.
Independent Ireland party leader Cork TD Michael Collins said the party has met with people who are seeking a nomination for the presidential election and the party wants to back a candidate.
He said these people hold 'strong positions in the country'.
'Independent Ireland will not be running an Independent Ireland candidate, we wouldn't have the finances,' he said.
'There's no point talking to dreamers. Some people have decided they want to hold a presidency but they can't even hold a council seat.'
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