A PORTHMADOG man will take to the streets of Bangor to protest against the Nationality and Borders Bill.

The protest, which will take place tomorrow at Bangor town centre clock tower at 1pm, has been organised by Joe McDonald.

The 24-year-old, who is known for his work as vice chair of the local Labour Party branch and as a Black Lives Matter supporter, has independently organised the protest.

Explaining why, he told the Cambrian News: "I believe this bill is intentionally targeting refugees’ right to asylum, and this could put them at risk of human rights violations."

People are welcome to join the protest. Attendees already confirmed include students, local trade union members, and activists from other progressive groups.

"Speakers may include a refugee who studied in Bangor," Joe added.

"The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has said that the Nationality and Borders Bill will “create an unfair two-tier asylum system and cause unnecessary suffering to asylum-seekers” and that the bill would break the 1951 Refugee Convention.

"The point of the protest is firstly to show that refugees are welcome in Gwynedd, and we demand that the Nationality and Borders Bill be scrapped completely. It remains in the committee stage and is awaiting a third reading in the House of Commons.

"Secondly, there should be new measures that not only follow international law, but also stops human traffickers, by ensuring safe passage for refugees who attempt to make irregular journeys, and once they arrive here, they should be treated with decency and compassion, not deported or sent to cruel offshore processing centres.

"We are one of the wealthiest countries in the world, with thousands of homes that have been empty for over 10 years. I believe denying asylum for refugees who are fleeing war, oppression and poverty is unreservedly abhorrent, and that’s why I have organised this protest."

Organising a protest against a Conservative bill is not something Joe would have done a few years ago.

He said: "I used to be a prejudiced bigot until 2017, and I used to be a Tory, but after a long journey in education and actually listening to people, I changed and understood that I should stand up for equality, and defend people who are suffering, especially refugees. This is another reason why I wanted to organise this protest. I am proof that with education and listening, we can change public opinion, and live in a more compassionate society."