LAST UPDATE | 31 Dec 2025

GARDAÍ HAVE LAUNCHED a hate crime investigation after antisemitic graffiti was daubed on two roads in Co Louth in recent days.

The graffiti, which included swastika symbols and the words ‘Jew Rat’ and ‘USA’, was painted on the R165 and the L1260 near Ardee. 

Images of the graffiti have been widely shared on social media. 

It has been strongly condemned by Louth County Council and Holocaust Awareness Ireland. 

In a statement to The Journal, gardaí said they received a report of criminal damage to the road surface of the R165 at Shanliss, Ardee, Co Louth.

“This matter is being investigated as a hate crime,” a spokesperson said. 

Anyone with information in relation to the incident is asked to contact Ardee Garda Station on 041 685 3222, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.

“An Garda Síochána takes hate crime very seriously. Every hate crime reported to An Garda Síochána is professionally investigated and victims supported during the criminal justice process,” the spokesperson said. 

“An Garda Síochána continues to encourage any victim of any crime to report this to An Garda Síochána including any indication that the crime may have a hate motivation.”

They said gardaí from the Garda National Community Engagement Bureau have a good relationship and engage with the Jewish community throughout the country on an ongoing basis “and continue to liaise with the Jewish community at this time”. 

‘Unacceptable’

In a statement to The Journal, a spokesperson for Louth County Council said their operations team investigated both locations today after they were notified of the incident.

“Arrangements are being made to remove the graffiti as quickly as possible,” the spokesperson said.

They added: “The Council strongly condemns the use of antisemitic language or imagery in any form.

“Such acts are unacceptable and stand against our core values of equality and inclusiveness, and our commitment to fostering a respectful and welcoming community for all throughout County Louth.”

Fianna Fáil councillor for Ardee John Sheridan said he was contacted about the graffiti last night.

“This is an unacceptable attack on Jewish people living in Ireland and should not be tolerated. Targeting of anyone because of their faith is not acceptable,” he said in a statement on social media. 

The incident has also been condemned by Holocaust Awareness Ireland, saying it “repeats one of the most disturbing antisemitic caricatures deployed by the Nazis in pre war Germany”. 

The organisation said it is obvious that Ireland “has experienced a rising trend in antisemitic sentiment across all social strata including all levels of Government and media”.

It called for the Government to unconditionally condemn the graffiti, for it to be immediately removed and for a fine “equal to one month’s pay” to be imposed on the person responsible.