Lawmaker: Offensive Irish Clothing, Souvenirs Should Go

A Rockland County legislator is taking issue with St. Patrick’s Day-themed paraphernalia that displays vulgar and derogatory messages and is on sale by a few merchants at Palisades Center mall in West Nyack.

“These items are deeply offensive, vulgar and inappropriate,” said Patrick Moroney of Orangetown. “The wording amounts to nothing more than ethnic bashing and is insensitive.  There are few cultures that take as much ribbing as the Irish and it escalates around this time of year. In addition, these shirts and hats are displayed in full view for our youngsters to see.”

Moroney is calling upon merchants throughout the county to halt the display and moreover, the sale, of any merchandise that displays offensive words or portrays any ethnicity in an insulting manner.

“The joyous occasion of our annual is only days away,” said Moroney.  “It is a time for everyone to join with those of Irish heritage to celebrate with respect and harmony, a great tradition.”

Rockland County's in Pearl River is the largest such parade in the region, outside of New York City. The parade, set for 1:30 p.m. Sunday in downtown Pearl River, could draw as many as 50,000 spectators.