- Opinion
- 10 Jul 25
United Against Racism responds to Co. Tyrone bonfire featuring migrant boat
The boat, erected on top of the bonfire in Moygashel, contains a dozen mannequins wearing life jackets.
United Against Racism Belfast has called the loyalist bonfire in Moygashel, Co. Tyrone, which contains models of migrants in a boat, an “absolutely shocking attempt to intimidate people who are fleeing war, poverty and persecution."
“In a context of widespread violence against migrants and their homes,” the group said, “the burning of effigies is a precursor to the burning of people. Given recent events in Ballymena, and our own recent history, we must be alive to the real dangers that such acts carry.”
They also said that the bonfire “deserves unreserved and unequivocal condemnation,” and called on political representatives “to show leadership to ensure the effigy is removed.
“United Against Racism is not only concerned with the offensive messaging involved,” they continued. “We are concerned that a toxic and violent atmosphere is being whipped-up that can only result in a program against migrants and minorities. An urgent response is required.”
Finally, the group insisted that “these actions do not represent the majority of Moygashel or in any other community,” and that “this majority must be cohered and mobilised into a movement which can isolate the racist and bigots.” They also called “on all progressives to unite in this cause.”
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The boat was erected on top of the bonfire in Moygashel on the outskirts of Dungannon, and contains a dozen mannequins wearing life jackets.
It has since been condemned by a large number of organisations, including Amnesty International's Northern Ireland director Patrick Corrigan, who called it a "vile, dehumanising act that fuels hatred and racism". And saying that it "cruelly mocks the suffering of people who risk everything to flee war, persecution, and hardship in search of safety".
He added that Amnesty International urged the “authorities to ensure its immediate removal” and called “on the PSNI to investigate and hold those responsible to account."
In a post on X, Northern Ireland's First Minister Michelle O'Neill called the incident “racist displays that are sickening and deplorable,” adding that it poses “serious risks to life, property, the health of residents and vital public services.”
She added that “Political leadership is essential to ensure the safety of residents, patients and the wider public.”
Meanwhile, Sinn Féin's Assembly member for Fermanagh and South Tyrone Colm Gildernew said the bonfire was "vile" and "deplorable,” adding that this was “an absolutely disgusting act, fuelled by sickening racist and far-right attitudes,” as well as “a clear incitement to hatred” that “must be removed immediately.
"Those who come to our island to make it their home are not the enemy,” he continued, “They are our friends, our neighbours, and are welcomed, cherished and valued by the vast majority of people here.”
"Political leaders in this area must step up, call for the removal of these offensive materials and make it clear they do not support such vile, deplorable views."
Meanwhile, Jamie Bryson, a prominent loyalist activist, said on X that "Every year Moygashel bonfire combines artistic protest with their cultural celebration. Their yearly art has itself become a tradition. This year the focus is on the scandal of mass illegal immigration."
Police in Northern Ireland have declared a "major incident" concerning the bonfire and are holding meetings with local community groups, politicians and a range of multi-agency partners.
Belfast City Council has requested for the PSNI to help contractors remove a controversial bonfire deemed to pose a risk to the electricity supply to two major hospitals.
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