The Wolfe Tones have weighed in on the controversy surrounding a Sinn Fein TD saying “Up the Ra” after his re-election to the Dail.
David Cullinane has now apologised for the comment and said “he didn’t set out to offend anyone.”
The Waterford TD received backlash after a video posted on social media showed him shouting the words during a victory speech at a pub in Waterford on Sunday.
But now the Wolfe Tones have said on Twitter that people don’t have to apologise for the phrase.
In a tweet, the band wrote: “We don’t have to apologise for mentioning the IRA in a song or chant.
“I don’t hear anyone asking for an apology from those celebrating the British Army by wearing a poppy to remember them.
“They were ruthless and we know of their tactics and collusion in Ireland.
“Should we or are we going to ban the poppy in Ireland? should we!
“We have our heroes, they have theirs, respect that.
“Rule Britannia or Land of hope and glory Rebel Jingoistic English songs I’ve no problem with them.
“I don’t hear anyone shouting are they appropriate songs to sing in public.
“Give me a break. Tolerance is needed from all sides Up the Ra.”
