“And My Daughter Won’t Like Brown People”: Aontú Fires Kildare Youth Leader Over Racist Messages

The messages reviewed by the party leadership included repeated use of the n-word, antisemitic slurs and conspiracy claims about Jewish people controlling immigration.

Aontú has removed the head of its youth wing in Kildare and dismissed five other young members after the party where informed of private WhatsApp groups where racist and antisemitic slurs were shared.

Speaking to Kfm this morning, Aontù leader Peadar Toibin said he only became aware of the text exchanges last Friday.

The party, according to the Sunday Independent, confirmed that Ógra Aontú leader John Bryan (21), who was a local representative in the Clane LEA based in Derrinturn, was expelled following an internal probe into two alleged secret group chats used by senior figures in its youth structure. Three additional members have been suspended while investigations continue.

Bryan had been working as a constituency administrative assistant for Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín in Leinster House since January and also served as election agent for Mayo TD Paul Lawless. He has now been removed from both roles.

Speaking to Kfm this morning,  Deputy Tóibín said the party is "furious". He said it is "sad" that these groups exist and that he was not aware of Mr Bryan's views.

He said he only became aware of the exchanges last Friday.

He added that the Party is "disgusted” by the behaviour uncovered and insisted the comments did not reflect the values of the wider organisation.

The messages reviewed by the party leadership included repeated use of the n-word, antisemitic slurs and conspiracy claims about Jewish people controlling immigration.

In one group, titled Friends of the GOP Éire, Bryan allegedly  posted comments describing “some n***** Dub” and separately wrote “Stupid c*** Jew Dubs.” He later said he was referring to “Dubs as a DNA group.”

Another post allegedly discussed how newcomers should first be tested with jokes before using a “welcome to the Hitler Youth” line if deemed trustworthy.

In a separate private chat, Bryan allegedly reacted to a message from Ógra member Peter Irvine - who has left the party -  about restricting children’s access to the internet and smartphones until they turn 16.

Bryan allegedly replied in agreement and added: “And my daughter won’t like brown people,” followed by a series of emojis including a white flag, ghost, church, swords and fire.

Kfm has attempted to contact Bryan for comment.

In a text message to Kfm this morning he said: "I am deeply ashamed of the remarks I made. They represent me at my worst, and while they were misguided attempts at humour, they in no way reflect my true beliefs. There is no context that can excuse such disgusting behaviour. I hold no hatred toward any group of people, and I condemn all rhetoric that fuels hate in our country. I sincerely apologise for any hurt this has caused."

He recently appeared on Upfront on RTE, where he shared some of his views on immigration. He suggested a "sea border" between Britain and Ireland to promote a "fair system for immigration".