Post by earl on Jun 10, 2008 13:37:27 GMT
Travellers are deciding whether to wage a national campaign demanding ethnic minority recognition.
Delegates at the Irish Traveller Movement AGM will vote on a motion urging the government to grant the community the same status as in England and Northern Ireland. Chairperson Catherine Joyce said ethnic status is of fundamental importance and would likely be supported by state bodies and human rights groups.
"Ethnic status would provide greater protection of Travellers cultural independence under law," she said. "This would include official recognition of Traveller culture in the provision of housing, education and health services."
Delegates at the Irish Traveller Movement AGM will vote on a motion urging the government to grant the community the same status as in England and Northern Ireland. Chairperson Catherine Joyce said ethnic status is of fundamental importance and would likely be supported by state bodies and human rights groups.
"Ethnic status would provide greater protection of Travellers cultural independence under law," she said. "This would include official recognition of Traveller culture in the provision of housing, education and health services."