An Irish branch of Active Clubs has emerged, joining the decentralized, international network of far-right, neo-Nazi and white supremacist groups seen in countries like the US and Canada. 

This branch—Comhaltas na nGaedheal (CnaG) — was recently covered extensively by Irish Independent. The outlet interviewed ISD Senior Analyst Ciarán O’Connor, who has been tracking the group since its establishment. He described CnaG as an Irish offshoot of the Active Clubs phenomenon that emerged in the US a few years ago. These groups market themselves “as being interested in fitness, male empowerment and combat skills. But this serves as cover for more explicit white nationalist beliefs.” 

Ciarán also explained the group’s online rhetoric, which reveals their far-right beliefs adapted to the Irish context. 

“While we have not seen CnaG engage in any offline targeting or extremist activity, online they frequently demonise minority communities in Ireland and express support for their white nationalist beliefs, including likening the presence of Indian migrants to a new plantation or openly referring to themselves as ‘right-wing extremists’,” Ciaran said. “Though their offline activities appear minimal — not much beyond photos promoting their training and hiking initiatives — their online channels are replete with support for white supremacist ideals.” 

The full article is available on Irish Independent.