Ireland has formally responded to the Fifth Opinion of the Council of Europe’s Advisory Committee on the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities, focusing particularly on the challenges faced by the Traveller and Roma communities. Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration, and Youth, Norma Foley T.D., acknowledged the Advisory Committee’s findings, which highlight significant concerns but also commend Ireland’s ongoing efforts to address these issues.
In her statement, Minister Foley noted that while Ireland takes its obligations to the Council of Europe seriously, there is still work to be done. “Much has been done in recent years to address issues faced by Travellers and Roma, and this work will continue,” she emphasized, referring to the newly introduced National Traveller and Roma Inclusion Strategy II (2024–2028). This strategy aims to ensure the full inclusion and active participation of these communities in Ireland’s social, economic, cultural, and political life.
The Fifth Opinion, adopted in October 2024, acknowledges Ireland’s progress but includes 30 recommendations for improvement. These recommendations cover critical areas such as combating discrimination, enhancing education, improving accommodation, and supporting the Traveller economy. The Irish government’s response outlines specific actions under NTRIS II, including an initial action plan for 2024-2026, which will address these issues through collaboration with various government departments, state agencies, and NGOs.
Dr. Charles Dillon, Editor of the Historical Dictionary of Irish, welcomed the funding, noting it would support the RIA’s efforts in providing new digital resources and perspectives on the Irish language, including its dialects. “These outputs will provide a fresh perspective on Irish as it was spoken and written throughout history,” he said.
The new action plans, including the Traveller and Roma Education Strategy 2024-2030 and the National Action Plan Against Racism 2023-2027, are aimed at tackling educational disadvantages, discrimination, and promoting equality for the Traveller and Roma communities in Ireland.
The Irish government’s comprehensive approach ensures that these communities can access the same opportunities and services as other citizens, while also preserving their cultural identity and heritage.
Key Points:
- Fifth Opinion: Published by the Council of Europe’s Advisory Committee, highlighting areas for improvement in Ireland’s treatment of national minorities.
- Government Response: Ireland committed to implementing 30 recommendations through the National Traveller and Roma Inclusion Strategy II (2024-2028).
- Focus Areas: Discrimination, education, health, accommodation, and the Traveller economy.
- New Strategies: Traveller and Roma Education Strategy 2024-2030 and National Action Plan Against Racism 2023-2027.
This ongoing work aims to create a fairer, more inclusive Ireland where all communities, including Travellers and Roma, can thrive.
Minister Norma Foley Picture by Gareth Chaney, Collins Dublin
