image sourced from original article at Irish far-right influencers are generating substantial six-figure incomes by spreading anti-immigration, racist and misogynistic content across major social media platforms. Experts monitoring extremism warn that weak enforcement and outdated laws have allowed online agitators to profit from division, with some figures allegedly linked to real-world unrest, including protests that escalated into clashes with police.
Prominent personalities such as Keith Woods, Michael McCarthy, Michael O'Keeffe and Steafán Fox have built large audiences and multiple revenue streams through subscriptions, donations, merchandise and platform monetisation tools. Some have been banned from certain services yet continue to earn through alternative channels, paid memberships and cryptocurrency. Their content often targets migrants, women and minority groups, while in some cases praising extremist ideologies.
Researchers say social media algorithms reward inflammatory material, creating financial incentives for creators to push increasingly extreme views. Advocacy groups and security sources argue that existing Irish legislation is ineffective in tackling online hate, calling for stronger government action and greater accountability for platforms to prevent further societal harm.
