Madam, - We condemn all criminal behaviour and in particular the actions of a small number of Travellers involved in violent incidents over recent weeks in the midlands.
Criminal and violent behaviour is not part of Traveller culture; it is the behaviour of individuals. This behaviour needs to be dealt with, but not by blaming the whole community for the actions of a few. It is not fair that the rest of the Traveller community should feel embarrassed and judged because of the actions of a few individual Travellers.
Through a community development approach, Travellers have gained more confidence to speak out about what is going on inside and outside our community. When something bad happens, everything good that has been achieved seems to be forgotten. This is where Travellers need more support from the settled community. Travellers need to be encouraged to keep up the good work that is being done and of which we are proud. Travellers need to know that they have friends who will stick by them.
Longford Traveller Movement is working to promote Travellers' rights in areas such as education, health, accommodation and employment. We are currently doing research on the post-primary outlook for young Travellers; we are working with members of both the Traveller and settled communities to explore the difficulties facing Travellers in finding employment and continuing in education. - Yours, etc,
JULIE MONGAN, Chairperson, Longford Traveller Movement, Longford.