Galway Traveller Movement has this week launched its Election Manifesto for the upcoming general election.
They are asking candidates to address the discrimination and racism experienced by the Traveller community in Galway city and county.
GTM spokesperson Nora Corcoran says they want full equality, social justice and human rights for members of the Traveller community.
“TDs have a responsibility to represent all of their constituents. But Travellers face the highest levels of discrimination of any ethnic minority in Ireland and politicians have to change this.”
“Travellers have a right to equal and meaningful participation in social, economic, political and cultural life. Yet today they face 61% unemployment compared to just 4.5% unemployment for the general population.
“Traveller suicide rates are about six times higher than for the general population and they face poorer outcomes in physical health and education.”
GTM’s election manifesto focuses on seven key demands which they will be asking election candidates to support. These focus on accommodation, health, education, enterprise and work, culture and heritage, equality and inclusion.
They also want candidates to support the Irish Traveller Movement (ITM) call for a State apology to the Traveller Community, for long-term systemic exclusion and discrimination.
“We know there is a housing crisis for the whole population, but Travellers are overrepresented in the homeless statistics. In Galway City and County, Travellers represent up to 50% of the homeless, although we make up less than 1% of the population.
The council must ensure that existing funding for Travellers is fully drawn down and used and further funding sought to address the accommodation crisis.”
Galway politicians can raise their voices in the Dáil to call for change, says Nora Corcoran. “They can table motions asking the Government to fund local authorities to address Traveller homelessness.”
Ms Corcoran says TDs can help to address other areas of discrimination. “They can call on the Government to tackle our suicide crisis by creating a standalone Traveller Mental Health Strategy.”
“Politicians can also call for an end to discrimination in employment and education and all areas of society.”
As part of their pre-election campaign, GTM is asking voters to question candidates and canvassers on the doorsteps about discrimination against Travellers.
“Ask candidates to commit to the changes needed to create a more equal society for Travellers,” says Nora.
