It is important to confront barriers to Traveller inclusion in youthwork – Minister

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs Dr. Kathereine Zappone said it is important to confront barriers to Traveller inclusion in youth work and focus on how to lift these barriers.

Why do young Travelles not feel welcome in mainstream youth groups?” asked the Minister at the launch of research into Traveller inclusion in mainstream youthwork.

Tracey Reilly, information worker Pavee Point with Minister for Children Katherine Zappone at the launch of research into Travellers and youthwork at the GPO on 29th Novembe 2016.

“Mainstream youth organisations are willing to further engage Young Travellers and most believe at a local level that they are welcoming.

“However as Minister for Children and Young People I firmly believe we should not shirk away from those sections which make for more difficult reading.

“It is important to confront those barriers and focus on how to lift them.

“Involvement in youth groups is a lot more than simply promoting arts, sport and culture – it’s about having a voice in our nation’s future, it’s about being an integral part of our culture, our sports and our arts.

“On the back of this research I will be asking my Department to reflect on a number of points:

“Is there a lack of knowledge or even a fear amongst youth leaders about travellers?
How do we get more effective outreach?
How do we get the message out that youth organisations are welcoming? How do we challenge young Travellers to get involved? Can the youth sector be a learder in challenging prejudice discrimination and hate?-  the answer to this one is a definite yes!

“By answering all these questions we not only increase participation but we also pave the way for young Traveller leaders of the future.

“Having those leaders is important if we are genuine in ensuring that all young people have a say in the future of our country.”

The  Minister finished up be reiterating her long-time support for the recognition of Traveller ethnicity.

The research  was undertaken by Nexus on behalf of Invovle – the National Association of Travellers’ Centres. www.involve.ie