An official report on the prejudices of Irish people towards Travellers written by Westport author and priest, Fr Michael McGreil was launched by a Government Minister this week.
Entitled “The emancipation of the travelling people - attitudes and prejudices of the Irish people towards travellers”, the 100-page-plus report concludes that while a polarisation of attitudes among the public makes life ‘very uncomfortable for travellers in their own country’, it could also be indicative of movement in society towards a solution.
The report was launched by Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs, Pat Carey TD in Buswell’s Hotel in Dublin on Wednesday who said that issues raised will be a priority for the newly constituted Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs.
“I am optimistic when I see that significant improvement is shown in willingness to employ a Traveller. Access to gainful employment is not a social luxury. It is an essential need to enable Travellers to serve society in jobs that are personally satisfying and socially useful.
"Although a lot of good work has been done over the years in this area, there is no room for complacency. I am glad that these issues which are still affecting the Traveller community have been brought to my attention”, said Minister Carey. Further information on www.pobail.ie
