O’Rourke escapes serious criticism over 'worked like blacks' comment
Fianna Fáil Senator Mary O'Rourke has escaped serious criticism over a racist slur she made after she was selected as a candidate for the next general election.
The veteran politician was chosen as a Fianna Fáil candidate in Westmeath last night after defeating a challenge from local councillor Kevin 'Boxer' Moran.
In her acceptance speech, she praised her election team for helping her secure the nomination, saying they had "worked like blacks".
Mrs O'Rourke's comment was met with murmurs of disapproval from party members.
The Irish Refugee Council has described the remark as "ill-advised", but acknowledged that the Fianna Fáil politician had been "very brave and courageous" on refugee issues.
Others have also come to her defence, saying she was using a phrase that was once common, but now outdated and politically incorrect.
