Successful launch of Hands Off the People of Iran in Ireland

Anne McShane gives a report here on how meetings in Cork, Dublin and Belfast resulted in the succesful launch of Hands Off the People of Iran, in Ireland. Full article and links to more material at the url below.

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Genuine solidarity

The launch of the Hands off the People of Iran campaign in Ireland last week was an important success. It showed the potential of Hopi to draw others in and give real solidarity to left and progressive forces in Iran. Yassamine Mather put forward forceful arguments against many misconceptions. She explained the political realities in Iran and the struggles that are ongoing against the theocratic regime. She argued against the idea that the development of nuclear power by Iran was the impetus behind any US intervention. The true reason is that the Iranian state is far too influential in Iraq for the liking of the Bush administration.

The Iranian theocratic state is using the present crisis to crack down on dissent below. But despite repression, arrests and many dangers, struggles erupt again and again throughout Iran. The student and workers’ movements are particularly progressive and leftwing - against the regime, but also against imperialist aggression.

Des Derwin, vice-president of Dublin Council of Trade Unions, also a spoke at the Dublin meeting. He said he was glad to be associated with the campaign and offered the support of the DCTU. He also suggested that we put forward resolutions to union branches and organise meetings during the forthcoming conference season.

Residents Against Racism raised the need to give support to Iranian political refugees. The Irish government currently collaborates with Tehran in making enquiries about asylum-seekers - greatly endangering their lives. It is also refusing more and more applications for political asylum. It was agreed that the campaign should build links and defend Iranian migrants and refugees in Ireland.

http://www.cpgb.org.uk/worker/673/hopi.htm

To get involved with Hopi in Ireland, email Anne@hopoi.info; or call 08623 43238 (+353 8623 43238).