Travellers will be officially recognized as an ethnic group from this day onwards, after a historic speech uttered by Taoiseach Enda Kenny in the Dáil chamber earlier today.
Mr. Kenny referred to the Traveller issue as ‘deep and personal’, saying “No one should have to hide their culture to be respected in society”.
“I hope today will create a new platform for positive engagement with the government and the Travelling Community.”
In practice, today’s decision means that Travellers will now be included in anti-racism initiatives and social integration policies and legislation.
Traveller and support groups have widely welcomed the Taoiseach’s decision.