Dermot Whelan 'has a lot of faith' in people despite the 'fear and division' in the world

As the social landscape continues to change in Ireland, we ask six famous faces how important it is to connect with those around them. Here, Dermot Whelan told RSVP about the importance of treating not only others, but also yourself, with kindness

Dermot Whelan has said that he still has faith in the human race despite division and tension in Ireland at the moment.

The comedian and broadcaster spoke to RSVP Magazine this about the social landscape in Ireland, telling us that he believes those in society who want to stoke fear and division are in the "minority".

Dermot also shared one of his biggest lessons from years of meditation - learning to treat yourself with kindness.

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"We’re only as strong as our relationships," he said. "We need to work on the ones that lift us up and let go of the ones that drag us down. But what I’ve learned over the years through studying meditation, is that our view of the world and everyone in it is totally dependent on how we view ourselves.

"If we can’t show kindness and caring to ourselves, it’s very hard to share it with others. So tell yourself you’re doing your best, forgive yourself for tripping up every now and again and breathe some kindness into that lovely heart of yours. The people in your life will thank you for it."

The former Today FM presenter went on to say that the cost of living is affecting people's sense of security, which means they are looking for people to blame.

"There are clearly some negative feelings towards immigrants at the moment," said Dermot.

"Which always seem to come from people who expect to have their Irishness celebrated and welcomed when they go abroad. The world is an uncertain place at present and the cost of living is really affecting people’s sense of security. When people feel unsafe, they look for someone to blame. That’s usually a minority or some group with less power."

He added: "It’s not a new phenomenon. I remember reading about similar things happening back in ancient Rome when I was in university. Not that I was in university in ancient Rome. I’m not that old!"

"You know what I mean! But it’s easier to attack more vulnerable people rather than take on those with actual power. Also these problems are complex so people prefer a simple solution and someone to blame."

You can read Dermot's full interview as well as interviews with five other famous faces on the topic in the October issue of RSVP, on shelves now.

Season 2 of Dermot’s Number One wellness series, The Mind Full podcast, is live now. His nationwide wellness and comedy tour, Busy and Wrecked, kicks off January 2025. More information at https://dermotwhelan.com/.

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