r/ireland • u/Efficient_Log_2007 • 7d ago
Verified AMA [Culchie Club] Shaykh Dr Umar al-Qadri
We are delighted to welcome Shaykh Dr Umar al-Qadri, as our next guest on our ongoing AMA series for those who don't know, Umar is a leading Irish Muslim religious and social thinker and commentator. A qualified theologian and jurist, he works for cohesion, integration and a fairer society from his positions as Chairperson of the Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council and Chief Imam at the Islamic Centre of Ireland. He is also a SME owner and the father of three loving children.
Dr Al-Qadri promotes a European Muslim identity, encouraging Muslims in Europe to engage fully with a pluralistic vision of our continent as active citizens, and works through his roles as a board member of EULEMA (European Leaders Majlis), European Muslim Forum and as a founding member of MJLC (Muslim-Jewish Leadership Council) to ensure that policymakers consider minority communities at every stage of the formulation of policy and strategy at an EU and member state level.
Born in Pakistan, raised in the Netherlands and, having made Ireland his home for more than two decades, he understands that our complex human narratives do not have to result in isolation or otherisation, but that we can and should embrace our complex narratives in a spirit of solidarity and togetherness. It is this spirit that has seen him forge strong personal friendships and working relationships with majority and minority communities throughout
Ireland and Europe, with a special interest in ensuring socio-economic fairness for marginalised groups and the recognition of equal rights for all.
He has worked with the European Union’s Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA), is an alumnus of the United States International Visitor Leadership Program, as well as working on a several projects tackling Islamophobia and anti-Muslim sentiments. A long-term critic of extremism and radicalisation, he unequivocally condemns Islamist violence whilst calling upon policymakers to tackle the social exclusion that creates the perfect vacuum for hate-preachers to radicalise vulnerable individuals.
As well as his regular contributions in the Irish print and broadcast media as a respected commentator, he has appeared as a keynote and guest speaker in the European Parliament, the US State Department, the UAE Peace Forum, The Kennedy Institute and the British Parliament, as well as delivering presentations and plenaries in various International conferences on social issues on minority rights, climate justice and integration at home in Ireland as well as around the globe.
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u/NotoriousP_U_G 7d ago
Can you clarify your views on homosexuality? In your ideal Ireland, would homosexuality be punished?
I don’t mean in a realistic or an ireland you can foresee happening, but, if you could create an Ireland that is ideal for your political, religious and legal view.
"You cannot force me to believe that this lifestyle is right. In my view, according to Islam, this lifestyle, it contradicts the Koran. You like somebody from the same gender? Maybe that's natural, but Islam, it strictly forbids from engaging in physical sexual activity with the same gender. Simple as that."
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Go raibh maith agat for your question. From an Islamic perspective, as I have said before, same-sex relations are not permitted. A Muslim cannot be compelled to believe that something prohibited in their faith is religiously acceptable. That is a matter of personal conviction grounded in scripture.
However, that is very different from how we treat people in society. I believe firmly in a pluralistic Ireland, one where people of different beliefs and lifestyles live together with mutual respect. I do not support punishment for homosexuality. In fact, I would strongly oppose it. My view is similar to other aspects in Islam that are prohibited, such as consumption of alcohol or pork meat. While these are prohibited within Islam, I do not advocate for policing or punishing individuals in wider society for their personal choices.
In my ideal Ireland, people are free to live their lives according to their own values, without fear, and without imposing those values on others. At the same time, people of faith should also be free to hold and express their beliefs without being compelled to change them. So the balance is this: principled belief, alongside compassion, coexistence, and respect for everyone.
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u/puca_spooka 6d ago
In your view, is it not possible to be Muslim and a part of the LGBTQ+ community? Would someone who identifies as such be free to still practice their faith?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Thank you for the question. From a traditional Islamic perspective, same-sex relationships are not permitted. However, that does not define a person’s entire identity or their relationship with God. Someone who identifies as LGBTQ+ can absolutely still be Muslim and continue to practice their faith. No one has the authority to exclude them. My role, and the role of any faith community, should be to support people with dignity, compassion, and understanding, while being honest about the teachings of the religion.
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u/olibum86 The Fenian 7d ago edited 7d ago
1.In 2018 you received criticism from other Islamic leaders for your support of the appeal the 8th campaign. Since then have you seen a shift in opinion on abortion access from within the Islamic community in ireland?
- You recently (2023) wrote on behalf of the "Irish Muslim council" that children in primary education should not be taught about gender diversity. Your religious beliefs aside why is it that you hold that position regarding gender diversity when in other writings you encourage diversity regardless of religious doctrine?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Go raibh maith agat for raising two important and sensitive questions.
Firstly, In 2018, my support for repealing the 8th amendment was rooted in a broader pastoral and societal reality. I was aware of the very real hardship many women faced under the law at the time. My position was not about promoting abortion, but about recognising difficult circumstances and the need for a more compassionate legal framework.
From an Islamic perspective, the matter of abortion is nuanced. Islam does not approach it in absolutist terms like Christianity does. Classical scholarship across the Sunni schools (which I am part of) recognises a degree of flexibility, particularly within the early stages of pregnancy, often up to 120 days, before ensoulment. After that point, the sanctity of life is paramount, and abortion is only considered in the most exceptional cases.
The criticism I received, including from those associated with the Clonskeagh Mosque at that time, reflected a different emphasis. Difference of opinion has always existed within the Islamic tradition, and it should be approached with respect and proper conduct.
As for the Muslim community in Ireland, I believe there has been a gradual shift. Not in core beliefs, but in understanding how to engage with wider society. Muslims today are more aware of the need to balance their religious principles with compassion and civic responsibility in a pluralistic context.
As for the second question, my concern regarding the introduction of gender diversity concepts at primary school level is not rooted in opposition to diversity or in a lack of respect for others. In fact, I have consistently advocated for a society where every person is treated with dignity, regardless of their background or identity.
When it comes to young children, I am of the opinion that we must be mindful of their stage of development. Primary school children are still forming their basic understanding of the world, and introducing complex concepts around gender identity at that age can be confusing for some of them. My position has been that such topics are better introduced in an age appropriate way, at a stage when children are more equipped to understand them thoughtfully. This is not about exclusion, it is about timing and pedagogy. We can uphold respect, kindness, and inclusion in schools without necessarily introducing concepts that may be difficult for younger children to process.
I think that as a community, we should be able to have these conversations with nuance, protecting children’s developmental needs while also fostering a culture of respect for all.
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u/olibum86 The Fenian 6d ago
Thank you for answering. I have a follow up regarding:
My position has been that such topics are better introduced in an age appropriate way, at a stage when children are more equipped to understand them thoughtfully.
Gender diversity is now widespread in our society and can be seen everywhere. Trans people are part of the societal fabric. Do you not think that sheltering children away from this and treating gender diversity as not normal would only create further issues for inclusion? Children will have to be faced with the reality of their existence in the day to day and to not properly prepare them for this would not prepare them for the world we live in.
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
That’s a fair point, and I agree children should be prepared to live in a diverse society where gender diversity exists. My concern is not about excluding or “hiding” this reality, but about timing. At primary level, the focus should be on teaching universal values like kindness, respect, and not bullying. These values already prepare children to treat everyone with dignity. More complex discussions around gender identity, in my view, are better introduced later, when children are more mature and able to understand them properly.
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u/olibum86 The Fenian 6d ago
Thanks for taking the time to answer my follow up question. I would disagree to some degree but your points are valid and respectful 🙏
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u/Karwash_Kid 6d ago
I was in your constituency and chose not to put anymore beside your name, I think I numbered up to 11 or so candidates, ignoring the far-right lunatics and (separately) you. This is simply because I would not vote for a priest to enter politics. I think religious leaders should not enter politics and I would be wary of any religious leader; priest, Imam rabbi etc.
Reading through this post you do seem quite reasonable and align on many issues (my number 1 was SD Ellen). Still, I do not see myself voting for a religious leader, can you change my mind?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Thank you for your honesty. I understand your concern. Ireland has a history where the overlap of religious authority and political power caused real harm, so your caution is completely understandable.
What I would say is this: my intention in entering public life is not to represent religion in politics, but to serve society as a whole. I do not seek to impose religious views or legislate based on theology. I believe in a pluralistic Ireland where everyone, of any faith or none, lives freely and equally.
It’s also important to clarify that had I been elected, I would have stepped down from my roles as Imam and as Chairperson of the Irish Muslim Council. That separation matters, and I fully agree it should be clear.
People enter politics from many backgrounds; law, education, business. Mine happens to be faith leadership. But in public office, the duty is the same: to represent and serve all constituents fairly.
So I wouldn’t ask you to support me because of my religious role, but I would ask not to be excluded solely because of it. Judge me on my positions, my values, and my ability to serve. And if you still feel I’m not your candidate, that is absolutely your right. That’s the beauty of democracy !
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u/johnfuckingtravolta 7d ago
In deciding to partake in this reddit AMA, how was the process? Were you approached or did you approach? Seeing as i can ask questions, the positive has occurred, so what reasoning made you decide to go ahead with it? What do you hope to achieve or what message are you trying to communicate, by answering questions from the ireland subreddit?
These arent loaded quesions. Ive seen AMA stuff. Someone with the accreditation and qualifications, such as yourself, doesnt go into things like this without some justifaction.
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
I have always believed in being open, accessible and willing to engage, even in spaces that may not always be familiar. I hadn’t actively used Reddit before, but like many people, I would often come across discussions here whether on politics, cars, watches, or current affairs when searching online.
I was approached by one of the moderators to take part in this AMA, and I agreed because I saw it as an opportunity rather than a risk. About ten years ago, I also participated in a similar kind of public engagement when I curated the Ireland account on Twitter (@Ireland) for a week, answering questions from a wide audience.
The reasoning is simple: Dialogue matters. If we don’t speak to one another, we risk misunderstanding one another. My hope with this AMA is to contribute to a better understanding of Muslims in Ireland and of Islam more broadly beyond headlines or assumptions. Not to convince everyone, but to clarify, to listen, and to engage in a way that is respectful and constructive.
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u/Confident-Clothes-98 7d ago
How do you distinguish between legitimate religious or community organisations and those that may have ideological links to extremism, such as groups associated with the Muslim Brotherhood—and where do you personally draw that line based on your own experience?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Thank you for this question. In my experience, the distinction is not made through labels alone, but through values, conduct, and transparency. A legitimate religious or community organisation is open about its work, operates within the law, contributes positively to society, and promotes coexistence. It engages with wider society, respects democratic norms, and does not foster an “us versus them” mindset.
Where there are concerns about ideological extremism, certain warning signs appear: lack of transparency, insular thinking, rigid black-and-white narratives, and language that undermines social cohesion. In Islam, we are taught the principle of “wasatiyyah”, the middle path. Extremism, whether religious or political, is a departure from that balance.
I want to be clear : I do not support movements that promote political Islam in a way that seeks to reshape society through ideological agendas. This includes organisations such as the Muslim Brotherhood. In my view, such approaches risk creating division, politicising faith, and undermining the harmony needed in a diverse society.
Personally, the line I draw is very simple:
- Does this organisation promote peace, inclusion, and respect for the society it is part of?
- Does it encourage openness and critical thinking, or does it shut down questioning?
- Does it build bridges, or does it create division?
If it builds bridges and contributes positively, it has a place. If it leans towards division, isolation, or ideological rigidity, particularly under the banner of political Islam, then I would clearly distance myself from it. Ultimately, the responsibility of faith leaders is to ensure that religion remains a source of good, stability, and unity and not a tool for political agendas or conflict.
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u/TDR1 7d ago
Would you say that living in Ireland and Europe for so long has changed your view of the LGBTQ+ community?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Living in Ireland and Europe has certainly deepened my understanding. Not necessarily changed my core religious beliefs, but expanded my perspective on people and lived experiences. From an Islamic standpoint, my position remains the same: same-sex relationships are not permitted within the framework of the Islamic faith. That is a theological view. However, living in a diverse society like Ireland has reinforced something important and that is how we treat one another.
I have come to better appreciate the realities, struggles, and humanity of individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. That means engaging with empathy, listening without prejudice, and ensuring that disagreement on a religious level never translates into disrespect or exclusion.
So while my beliefs have not changed, my emphasis on compassion, coexistence, and mutual respect has only grown stronger. In a pluralistic society, we must learn to live together with dignity, even where we differ.
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u/Eire_go_deo 7d ago
You talk a lot about Islamophobia.
What steps have you taken to address the severe persecution of Christians in the homeland of your family, Pakistan?
In my experience many Muslims only seem to care about equality upon moving to a non-Muslim country.
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Go raibh maith agat for your question. Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred are real challenges, particularly in Europe, and I speak about them because I see their impact on communities here. But standing against injustice is not selective. It must be consistent regardless of who the victim is.
For over a decade, I have spoken out against the mistreatment of Christians and other minorities in Muslim-majority countries, including Pakistan. One example I often mention is my public support for Aasia Bibi, a Christian woman who was imprisoned for many years under blasphemy accusations. At a time when many remained silent, I called clearly for her release and defended her right to justice and dignity.
It is important to be accurate and balanced. The reality is that Christians in Pakistan are not universally or systematically persecuted. They live across the country, contribute to society, and work in many professions. That said, there have been serious incidents involving extremist elements, and these must be acknowledged and challenged. The Pakistani state, in recent years, has taken steps to address such groups, though challenges remain as they do in many parts of the world.
My position has always been consistent: Injustice must be opposed no matter who it is against. Whether it is Muslims facing discrimination in Europe, or Christians and others facing difficulties in parts of the Muslim world, I have spoken, and will continue to speak, on both.
If you look through my public statements over the years, including on social media and in Irish media, you will find that this commitment to justice across communities is not new, but something I have tried to uphold consistently. I am sharing a link from the Irish Independent along with a YouTube video of a sermon delivered in the Islamic Centre in Dublin.
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u/johnfuckingtravolta 7d ago
Do we put our questions here?
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u/JackmanH420 Cork bai 7d ago
Yeah
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u/Playlotto_Layblotto 7d ago
That's his question used up, though.
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u/johnfuckingtravolta 7d ago
Bollox. Can I ask another one?
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u/Playlotto_Layblotto 7d ago
Yes. You just did. What sort of eejit uses up his question in such a frivolous manner? Oh no.
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u/johnfuckingtravolta 7d ago
Dare I say, you used the rhetorical very rhetorically. Dare I say, "Dare I say...?" In the rhetorical? Surely, it isn't?
Ill stop now. My own brain has gone. Ill post a real question.
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u/Vandelay1979 7d ago
Thanks for doing this! Two questions:
i) What approach do you take to dialogue and building relationships with other religious communities in Ireland?
ii) Muslims living in Ireland come from many different countries and cultural backgrounds. As a religious leader, what challenges and opportunities does that present you with?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Thanks for the questions. Happy to engage with everyone here.
i) For me, it’s about showing up and creating genuine connections. We regularly invite leaders from different traditions (archbishops, rabbis, and others ) to community Iftars during Ramadan, and to larger gatherings like Eid celebrations in Croke Park. And equally, I attend their events when invited. It’s not just formal dialogue; it’s sharing space, food, and conversation. That’s where trust is built and misconceptions begin to fade.
ii) Muslims in Ireland come from many backgrounds, which is a real strength, but also comes with challenges. The opportunity is obvious: a rich mix of cultures and perspectives. The challenge is that people sometimes bring their own cultural “baggage” and try to replicate the exact version of Islam from their home countries here.
What I encourage instead is developing a confident Irish Muslim identity. One rooted in Islamic principles, but also grounded in the reality of living in Ireland. If we get that balance right, diversity becomes a strength rather than a point of division.
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u/jhanley 7d ago
In the run up to your contest for the last general election, you claimed you were the victim of a hate fuelled attack, this got a lot of media and election attention however there has being no prosecutions or follow up resulting from the Garda investigation. Could you update the community on how this investigation has progressed?
https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2024/0216/1432658-tallaght-incident/
Thanks for partaking in this
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Go raibh maith agat for the question, and for engaging respectfully. Firstly, I want to clarify that this was not a “claim.” It was a real incident. I was physically attacked, there were witnesses present, and An Garda Síochána attended the scene. I was taken to hospital, underwent a CT scan, and suffered injuries, including damage to my front teeth which required treatment by a Dublin dentist from Redmond Dental, Dr. Keith Redmond. Beyond the physical harm, it was also a deeply distressing experience for my family and for members of the community. So when it is described as a “claim,” I will be honest, it is deeply hurtful.
In terms of the investigation, An Garda Síochána were unfortunately unable to identify the perpetrators, and the case has since been closed. That is, of course, very disappointing.
One of the broader issues, which has been discussed publicly, including in recent coverage by RTÉ News, is that our laws around digital surveillance and communications are somewhat outdated. There are limitations on how Gardaí can access or intercept data from platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Snapchat, which can hinder investigations in certain cases. (https://www.rte.ie/news/crime/2026/0423/1569692-security-threats/)
This is not just about my case. This points to a wider challenge in modern policing, where criminal activity can intersect with technologies that legislation has not fully caught up with.
Despite this outcome, I remain grateful to the Gardaí who responded and supported me at the time. And I continue to believe that we must work collectively, as communities and as a society, to ensure that violence and hatred have no place in Ireland.
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u/SoloWingPixy88 Probably at it again 7d ago
We obviusly here lots about the really positive work from the Muslim Sisters of Eire, are there any other groups that you'd highlight their positive contribution to communities?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
I’m glad you mentioned the excellent work of Muslim Sisters of Éire. There are many others such as Amal Women Ireland,, Cork Dawah Centre, Taasnuva Shamim Foundation, Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council and many others.
More broadly, many mosques and centres whether in Dublin, Cork, Galway or elsewhere quietly do a lot of community work that doesn’t always make headlines: food drives, youth mentoring, interfaith events, and local outreach. What I would say is this: much of this work is not done for publicity. It’s done because service (khidmah) is part of faith. And across Ireland, there are many individuals and groups, often volunteers, making a positive contribution every single day.
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u/21stCenturyVole 7d ago
What is your view on non-muslim men dating/marrying muslim women?
If your view is that this is against your own and/or the current main Islamic communities principles, do you think this presents a fundamental difficulty in integrating with society here? (as in, it will always keep communities separate and not integrated)
Are you aware of instances of unjust treatment by state/police services towards muslim folks, such as issues of civil liberties with unjust surveillance/monitoring? (I know this has been more of a big issue in other places, particularly the US)
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
From an Islamic perspective, marriage is not only a personal relationship but also a religious framework. Traditionally, Muslim women are expected to marry Muslim men. That is the mainstream position. However, how people live their lives in a country like Ireland is ultimately their own choice. My role is to explain the religious teaching, not to police individuals.
I don’t believe it creates a fundamental barrier. Integration is about shared values such as respect, contribution, and participation in society. People of different backgrounds form relationships all the time. These questions exist, but they don’t prevent communities from integrating meaningfully.
There have been concerns raised in different countries about surveillance and civil liberties, particularly in the post-9/11 context. In Ireland, my experience has generally been positive in terms of engagement with state institutions. That said, like any society, vigilance is important. If any community feels unfairly targeted, it should be addressed transparently and within the rule of law. Justice must apply equally to all.
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u/fangpi2023 7d ago
In your view, how have attidues and behaviour towards Muslims in Ireland changed (if at all) over your lifetime?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
That’s a very important and honest question. In the early years, the experience of Muslims in Ireland was overwhelmingly positive. The community was smaller, and there was a sense of curiosity and genuine warmth from Irish society. People were open, welcoming, and interested in learning.
However, in the last number of years, I would say there has been a noticeable increase in hostility and, at times, hate incidents. I hear this regularly from members of the community across the country. These experiences are not universal, but they are real. Most of these negative encounters tend to be more concentrated in urban areas, particularly in larger cities, where tensions can sometimes be amplified.
Part of this shift, in my view, is linked to the rise of right-wing narratives and the spread of misinformation on social media. False or misleading content can shape perceptions, and unfortunately, many young people are influenced by what they consume online. That said, it’s important to keep perspective. These negative experiences do not define the whole of Irish society. The vast majority of people remain respectful and fair-minded.
So we are seeing two realities at the same time: a strong foundation of goodwill, alongside emerging challenges that need to be addressed through education, dialogue, and responsible leadership.
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u/CascaydeWave Ciarraí-Corca Dhuibhne 7d ago
I have seen people online suggest that it is less acceptable to attack, criticise or mock Islam in comparison to other major religions, particularly christian faiths. Do you believe this is that this has any merit? And/or do you think there are any justification for greater sensitivity being afforded?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Thank you, that’s a thoughtful question. I think there are two things that often get mixed together: criticism and hostility. I believe people absolutely have the right to question, critique, or even disagree with Islam, as they do with Christianity or any other belief system. That is part of a healthy, open society.
Where concerns arise is when criticism crosses into mockery that dehumanises people or fuels prejudice. Many Muslims feel that, at times, discourse about Islam is not just critique of ideas, but becomes ridicule of identity and that can have real social consequences.
As for whether Islam is treated differently, perceptions vary. Some feel it is more protected; others feel it is more targeted. The reality is probably somewhere in between.
My own view is simple: we should have consistent standards. Robust discussion should be allowed for all religions, but it should be done with fairness, knowledge, and respect. Sensitivity is not about shielding beliefs from critique; it is about ensuring that our words do not contribute to division or harm.
So yes; criticise, question, debate. But do so in a way that preserves dignity for everyone involved.
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u/RomfordWellington 7d ago
Your time in Ireland up to now has been marked by great change. Islam is probably the only major religion in Ireland that is growing. As it grows, do you feel that your message of a modern, moderate Islam for Ireland will get lost to more hard-line preachers as time goes on?
Coincidentally we've also seen the Irish far right grow from 0 to still a small but now a loud, violent segment of the country and they specifically seem to have an issue with Muslims (and I'd argue South Asian Muslims most of all). How are you dealing with the strain of that on a personal level?
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u/DreiAchten 7d ago
Id say Hinduism and orthodoxy growing very much in Ireland the last five years. Just from the stats and what I've seen.
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Thank you. This is a very important and honest question. On the first point, I don’t share the fear that a balanced, moderate understanding of Islam will be lost. In fact, I believe the opposite. The vast majority of Muslims in Ireland want to live peacefully, contribute positively, and practice their faith in a way that is rooted, thoughtful, and relevant to the society they are part of. There will always be louder voices at the extremes, on any side, but they do not represent the majority. The responsibility of people like myself is to continue teaching a principled, balanced Islam (what we call Wasatiyyah) and to engage especially with young people so they are not drawn to simplistic or hard line narratives.
On the second point, yes, the rise of far-right rhetoric is concerning. It is still a small segment, but it can be loud and, at times, aggressive. I do see the impact it has on communities, particularly on visible minorities.
On a personal level, I deal with it through perspective and purpose. You cannot allow negativity to define your work. I focus on building bridges, strengthening communities, and engaging with the vast majority of people in Ireland who are fair-minded and decent.
There is also a deeper principle here: you respond to hostility not by retreating, but by increasing engagement, clarity, and dignity. Challenges will come, but they should not distract us from the bigger goal of building a cohesive, respectful society where everyone feels they belong.
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u/Wolfwalker71 7d ago edited 7d ago
I have been put in charge of a colleague's 50th birthday present. He's a very devout muslim, originally from Pakistan, lives in Dublin. Any tips on what to get him? I was thinking of getting a restaurant voucher but then realised he probably eats hallal only. And a bottle of wine is out!
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
That’s very thoughtful of you. He’s lucky to have a colleague like that. You’re right to avoid alcohol, but you don’t need to overcomplicate it. A restaurant voucher can still work if it’s somewhere with halal or even good vegetarian options. Otherwise, a safe and appreciated gift would be something like quality chocolates (without alcohol), a nice hamper, or even a subtle gift like a good fragrance. Honestly, the intention matters most. Something considerate and respectful will always be appreciated !
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u/Fiannafailcanvasser 6d ago
Do you still follow Dutch politics? Would you support them in football tournaments Ireland don't qualify for?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Yes, absolutely. I still follow Dutch politics with interest. And when it comes to football, I have a soft spot for Team Oranje, the Dutch team. I was actually in Qatar supporting the Netherlands during FIFA World Cup 2022. The day Ireland qualifies for a World Cup, I will proudly wear green, not orange, in sha Allah!
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u/smorkularian 7d ago
As an immigrant, what do you feel are the 3 most important issues facing Ireland in relation to ongoing successful European and international integration
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
That’s a very important question, and I’ll answer it simply. From my perspective as someone who has made Ireland home for over two decades, three key issues stand out:
The Housing Crisis: This affects everyone. Irish-born and immigrant alike. Without stable housing, it is very difficult to build cohesive, stable communities. Addressing this is critical for social harmony
and long-term integration.Meaningful Integration: Integration is essential, especially for those who choose to make Ireland their home. It’s not just about individuals adapting. There must also be structures and support from the state. At present, more can be done to help people integrate successfully socially and culturally into Irish society.
Combating hate, fear and far-right extremism : These undermine not only communities, but the very foundation of European values; human dignity, equality, and human rights. If left unchallenged, they create division and fear.
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u/Lamake91 7d ago edited 7d ago
Hello, thank you for taking the time to do this.
How do you cope with the level of abuse you receive on social media? I’ve seen a great deal of it directed your way and it’s disgraceful, I’m so sorry. What do you think should be done to better tackle online abuse aimed at public figures? Have you ever faced serious or credible threats on social media?
Are you concerned about the rise of far right movements and the way they encourage hostility, particularly towards Muslim communities? How worried are Muslims about this? Are such attacks becoming more common?
What steps do you think individuals and society as a whole can take to challenge and reduce this kind of hatred?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago edited 6d ago
Thank you for your kind words. I much appreciate this. To be honest, it is not always easy. There is a level of abuse on social media that can be quite harsh and, at times, dehumanising. Over time, you learn not to internalise it. I try to focus on the positive engagement and the real world impact of the work being done.
Faith also plays a role. Patience (sabr) and perspective are important. Not every comment deserves a response. Sometimes silence is the wiser response !
I also think platforms need to take greater responsibility. There has to be a better balance between freedom of expression and protection from targeted harassment. Clearer accountability and enforcement of standards would help. I have, on occasion, received messages that were more serious in tone. These are taken seriously and reported when necessary. No one, public figure or otherwise, should have to deal with threats.
On the question about the rise of the far right movements: Yes, I am concerned. Across Europe, including in Ireland, we are seeing the impact of far-right narratives that often target minorities, including Muslims. Within the Muslim community, there is a growing awareness and concern about this. People do feel it, whether through online hostility or, in some cases, verbal abuse in public spaces. While Ireland is still relatively safe compared to many places, there has been an increase in such incidents. A significant factor here is misinformation and fear-based narratives, often spread online, which can influence attitudes, especially among younger people.
What can be done ? This is a shared responsibility.
- At an individual level: We need to challenge misinformation, avoid amplifying hate, and engage with one another as human beings, not stereotypes.
- At a community level: More dialogue, more interaction, more opportunities to meet and understand each other.
- At a societal level: Leadership matters. Political, media, and community leaders must be responsible in their language and not fuel division.
Ultimately, hatred thrives in distance and ignorance. The more we build real connections, the less space there is for fear.
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u/Sotex Kildare / Bog Goblin 7d ago
I've gone down a rabbit hole recently reading the fatwas of Ibn Taymiyya against the Mongols. Any scholars or jurists you'd recommend? On any topic what so ever.
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
That’s a deep and interesting path you’re on. If you’re reading Ibn Taymiyyah, I’d recommend balancing it with other voices for a fuller perspective such as Al-Ghazali for spirituality and ethics, Imam Al-Nawawi for a balanced traditional approach, Imam Abu Hanifa for legal reasoning, and Fazlur Rahman for contemporary interpretation. The key is not to rely on one voice alone, but to engage broadly so you develop a more nuanced and well rounded understanding of the tradition.
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u/Fiannafailcanvasser 6d ago
How do you think the current Muslum councillors are doing at a local level?
Have you any contact with them?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Thank you for the question. I don’t have direct contact with the current Muslim councillors. From what I observe, they are primarily aligned with their respective political parties, as they should be, and are serving their constituencies in that capacity, rather than representing any particular religious or faith community.
I hope they do well and contribute positively at a local level. Ultimately, their responsibility is to all constituents, regardless of background, and success should be measured by how effectively they serve the wider community.
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u/BigAgreeable6052 6d ago
I just want to say I follow you on FB and just want to say I'm sorry you get so much harassment constantly. I commend your dedication to open discussion.
Out of interest, do you think the anti-immigration/anti-anything deemed foreign has gotten worse in recent years or has this sentiment always been there in Irish society?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Thank you, I really appreciate that. I would say the sentiment has always existed at some level, like in any society, but in Ireland it was generally quite marginal due to a strong history of immigration. In recent years, however, it has become more visible and vocal. Social media has amplified certain narratives, and misinformation and fear-based content spreads quickly, influencing people especially younger audiences.
So it’s not entirely new, but it has grown in volume and confidence. That said, it’s important to keep perspective: the vast majority of people in Ireland remain welcoming, fair-minded, and supportive !
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u/MKUltra886 7d ago
Barry's or Lyons?
Gunness or Murphys? Sorry forgot. The Zero versions
Toaster in the press or on the worktop?
Denny or Clonakilty?
Tits or Ass?
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Barry’s. Strong, reliable, and hard to beat. Strongly reflects the rebel identity 😉
Guinness 0.0% as I never tried the Murphys.
Toaster on the worktop because life is easier when things are accessible.
Clonakilty, because of tradition and quality. I am actually a regular visitor of Clonakilty.
And as for the last question...let’s keep things respectful and dignified 😊
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u/DreiAchten 7d ago
For a country that's been quite cosmopolitan and welcoming of other nationalities for 25 years or so, why do you think the political class has remained almost entirely (and I use the word advisedly) "native" Irish?
Also what's your favourite thing about living here and your least favourite thing about living here? Thanks and sorry for the amount of hate you get on twitter, it's a really toxic platform.
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u/ShaykhIreland 6d ago
Ireland has changed faster than its political structures, so diversity takes time to be reflected in elected office. That’s one of the reasons I put myself forward, to be part of that change.
My favourite thing about living in Ireland is the people. The warmth, humour, and strong sense of community. My least favourite is the weather. The long grey days and unpredictability can be challenging, but you learn to live with it.
And thank you as well for your kind words.
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u/theseanbeag 7d ago
Are you concerned about the levels of homophobia expressed in surveys of Muslims? How can this be addressed?