Fake political leaflets about asylum seekers sent to Dublin homes

James Cox

Fake political leaflets were put through letterboxes of several homes in Dublin on Monday morning.

The flyers, which claim to be from Minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien, ask local residents in Malahide to give up a spare room, or "community hall" to asylum seekers, adding "financial incentives" are available.

Mr O'Brien has condemned the leaflets on Twitter, writing "disinformation like this seeks to cause tension".

Since November last year, the Government's Offer A Home initiative has housed over 4,000 Ukrainian refugees.

Mr O'Brien added: "At its core, disinformation like this seeks to cause tension in an area. The people of Malahide have proven themselves to be welcoming, in fact Fingal is one of the youngest, fastest growing & most diverse areas in Ireland. A place I’m proud to represent."

It is unclear what group is behind the leaflet, which appeared professionally designed.

Anti-refugee groups that have staged protests at Direct Provision centres and other buildings housing international protection applicants have used similar leaflets in the past.