Transparency and Justice Following Death of Yves Sakila, says Social Work Association
The Irish Association of Social Workers (IASW) expresses its deep sadness following the death of Yves Sakila on 15 May 2026. We extend our condolences to Mr. Sakila’s family, the Congolese community, and Black and ethnic minority communities across Ireland. We recognise the shock and trauma this incident has caused, including for those supported through social work services.
What Happened
Mr. Sakila, a 35-year-old Congolese man living in Ireland since 2004, died after being physically restrained by security personnel following an alleged shoplifting incident on Henry Street, Dublin. Widely circulated video footage shows Mr. Sakila in visible distress during a prolonged restraint, including a security guard kneeling on his head or neck. He was unresponsive when An Garda Síochána arrived, and CPR was performed before he was transferred to the Mater Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
“We are calling on all relevant authorities to ensure a thorough, transparent investigation; one that demonstrates that Black and ethnic minority communities can trust Irish institutions”, says Marta Correia, social worker / Anti Racism Advisory Group (ARAG) member.
A Pattern of Racism That Cannot Be Ignored
“This tragedy does not exist in isolation. The IASW has consistently raised concerns about the rise of the far-right in Ireland and the increase in racist incidents”, Correia continued.
EU and Irish civil society reports document discrimination against Black communities in housing, employment, and education, as well as racial profiling and distrust of the justice system.
“Racism is a real, harmful and structural issue in Ireland; and a failure to address it allows harm and inequality to continue”, stated Kerry Cuskelly, social worker / ARAG member, “Combating racism is a collective responsibility”.
IASW Stands With Affected Communities
The IASW established its Anti-Racism Advisory Group (ARAG) in 2020 in response to global calls for action on racial injustice. The death of Yves Sakila is a stark reminder that racism is not confined to other countries, it must be confronted here in Ireland.
We stand in solidarity with Black and ethnic minority communities and all those calling for justice, transparency, and accountability. We urge Irish society and public institutions to recognise racism and take meaningful, sustained action to address it.
