A rally to show refugees that they are welcome in Cork is planned for the city centre this evening.
The rally, which is being organised by the International Community Dynamics group, is planned for 4pm on the Grand Parade.
Human rights activist Roos Demol, who works with refugees and asylum seekers, said it was important to demonstrate that the vast majority of Irish people are welcoming to those who come here in need of international protection.
The rally comes on foot of a number of protests outside a direct provision centre in Fermoy which is housing 63 international protection applicants.
Earlier this month, around 50 anti-asylum protesters blocked traffic on the bridge in Fermoy for approximately 10 minutes.
Before Christmas, a rally of over 300 local Fermoy people turned out to show that refugees are welcome in the town.
Speaking to RedFM News Roos Demol says she feels strongly that it's important to stand up and show that refugees and asylum seekers are welcome in Cork.
"I think it's time that we stand up and show that the majority of people her win Ireland welcomes refugees, and that we are open to people who need protections.
"I'm from Belgium, my parents who are Moroccan they were very worried about it, because it's the unknown.
"We need to bring the truth out, and let people know it's not such a big worry, that you don't have to be worried about someone who's a bit darker than you."
