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Ahern attends Eid celebrations at Croke Park

Bertie Ahern and Dr Al Qadri at Croke Park
Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern was an invited guest at Eid celebrations at Croke Park, pictured alongside Mgr Eoin Thynne, who represented the Catholic Church, and Sheikh Dr Umar Al-Qadri

Hundreds of Muslims have gathered for the 7th celebration of Eid in Croke Park.

Families from across Ireland have come to the stadium for a day of prayer, celebration, and community engagement.

Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern joined those gathered as an invited guest.

It comes following comments by Mr Ahern while canvassing in Dublin during the recent bye-election, when he expressed concern about problems that may arise from the next generation of Muslims.

Mr Ahern addressed the crowd following the prayer led by Sheikh Dr Umar Al-Qadri, acknowledging the "hugely important day".

He noted celebrations taking place in mosques around the country, as well as at Croke Park, which he said was "very close" to his home.

Mr Ahern wished those gathered a "really good" family day.

Dr Al-Qadri earlier welcomed Mr Ahern's presence and said the Muslim community believes in dialogue, even if there are disagreements.

People on pitch during Eid celebrations at Croke Park
Prayers were performed on the pitch for the first time since the Covid pandemic

Dr Al-Qadri, who met with the former taoiseach at the weekend, added that challenging narratives, particularly politicians and policy makers, is necessary.

Speaking to young Muslims, he stressed the importance of integration and called on them to learn the Irish language, volunteer and get involved in their communities.

This year’s event is significant because it is the first time since the Covid pandemic that the Eid prayer is being performed on the pitch.

There is a heavy garda presence at Croke Park, due to the presence of protesters last year.

Locals from the surrounding area have welcomed those arriving for the celebration and distributed gifts to the children.

Monsignor Eoin Thynne was also at the event, representing the Catholic Church.