Almost 5,500 signed petitions calling for the establishment of a Traveller agency were delivered to the Government today (Nov 11th) by Pavee Point Traveller and Roma Centre.
Minister Aodhán O Riordáin, Minister of State at the Department of Justice, Equality and Arts received the petitions on behalf of the Government.
Speaking at the handover Martin Collins, Pavee Point Co Director thanked the public for their strong show of support and solidarity.
He said: “Today we, along with our 5,463 signatories, are urging the Government to show strong leadership on Traveller issues. What happened in Carrickmines cannot happen again. In the month since the Carrickmines fire tragedy we have seen the bereaved Traveller families housed in an un-serviced car park because of residents’ objections.
“We have seen a lot of solidarity with Travellers but we have also seen a lot of Hate Speech against Travellers.
“Travellers cannot be allowed to experience discrimination, degradation and to be forced to live in sub-standard conditions for another generation. We need to see results. A Traveller agency is needed to drive progress in an accountable and transparent way, turning policy into action.”
Pavee Point initiated a petition following the Carrickmines tragedy calling on An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny TD to establish a Traveller agency to urgently drive improvements and implement existing policies in Traveller health, education and employment.
Pics below by Tommy Clancy.
Minister of State for Justice & Equality Aodhan O Riordain receives our petition.
Independent TD John Halligan, Waterford showing his support.
Independent TDs Mick Wallace and Clare Daly showing their support.
Environment Minister AlanKelly, TD lending his support.
Tessa Collins, Pavee Point speaking to the press.
Fianna Fáil’s Eamon O Cuiv showing his support.
Sinn Féin’s Mary Lou McDonald speaking with Pavee Point Co Director Ronnie Fay.
