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Welcome to Ireland
Jun. 25th, 2004 10:43 amToday is the day that Mr Bush comes to visit our country. He will be arriving in Shannon, having a summet in Dromoland Castle, and leaving agin within twelve hours.
Many people think our government should have told the president he's not welcome, but I don't agree with this. While I support the visit, I think it is important that the Irish people show how they feel about Bush's policies.
It's important to remember that Ireland is hosting the president of America on behalf of Europe. We may not like his policies, but these summets are important as they are an opportunity for telling him. If we don't keep the channels of dialogue open, then things are likely to get worse rather than better.
Secondly, refusing the visit would deny the Irish people the opportunity to tell him exactly what they think of him. There will be protests in many parts of the country (details at IndyMedia.ie and IrishAntiWar.org).
My only fear is that a few radicals out to make trouble could spoil the whole thing. To be effective, the protest must be peaceful, lawful and dignified. Stunts like trying to breach security at Shannon or Dromoland will only get the whole mevement branded as a lunatic fringe. The Gardaí and Army will be stretched to breaking point. Making their jobs harder won't achieve anything.
So get out, and give the US President the welcome he deserves!
Many people think our government should have told the president he's not welcome, but I don't agree with this. While I support the visit, I think it is important that the Irish people show how they feel about Bush's policies.
It's important to remember that Ireland is hosting the president of America on behalf of Europe. We may not like his policies, but these summets are important as they are an opportunity for telling him. If we don't keep the channels of dialogue open, then things are likely to get worse rather than better.
Secondly, refusing the visit would deny the Irish people the opportunity to tell him exactly what they think of him. There will be protests in many parts of the country (details at IndyMedia.ie and IrishAntiWar.org).
My only fear is that a few radicals out to make trouble could spoil the whole thing. To be effective, the protest must be peaceful, lawful and dignified. Stunts like trying to breach security at Shannon or Dromoland will only get the whole mevement branded as a lunatic fringe. The Gardaí and Army will be stretched to breaking point. Making their jobs harder won't achieve anything.
So get out, and give the US President the welcome he deserves!
