LONDON

A controversial bonfire topped with an effigy of migrants in a boat has sparked a hate incident investigation in Northern Ireland, drawing condemnation from political leaders, human rights groups, and church figures.

The pyre, lit in the village of Moygashel, County Tyrone, on Thursday night, featured more than a dozen life-sized mannequins wearing life jackets placed in a boat.

Placards below the structure read “stop the boats” and “veterans before refugees.”

It was among approximately 300 bonfires expected to be lit across Northern Ireland ahead of the annual Orange Order parades on 12 July, commemorating the Battle of the Boyne.

Large crowds gathered to watch the bonfire being set alight, despite growing criticism over its content.

The Moygashel bonfire has been the subject of controversy in previous years, but this year’s display has sparked widespread outrage.

'Openly racist'

Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill described the display as “openly racist.”

“Many people will celebrate their culture and traditions this week,” she said on X.

“Unfortunately, we have seen incidents that pose serious risks to life, property, the health of residents and vital public services, alongside openly racist displays that are sickening and deplorable.

“Political leadership is essential to ensure the safety of residents, patients and the wider public. It is entirely wrong, and completely unacceptable for these bonfires to take place in a way that endangers property, infrastructure, public services or lives.

“It’s time for leadership to be shown.”

Patrick Corrigan, Amnesty International's Northern Ireland director, said the bonfire was a “vile, dehumanizing act that fuels hatred and racism.”

“It cruelly mocks the suffering of people who risk everything to flee war, persecution, and hardship in search of safety,” he said.

“Beyond being morally reprehensible, it incites hostility toward already marginalised and vulnerable communities.”

One campaigner criticized authorities for allowing what he called a “despicable display of hate” to go ahead.

Police have launched an investigation and are treating the incident as a potential hate crime.