Sir, – Jennifer O’Connell’s article (Life, February 27th) commendably highlighted a very widespread prejudice that is rarely commented on.
However, referring to the recent despicable comments of some local councillors in Donegal, and the later burning of a house assigned to a Traveller family, she states these incidents were treated with “indifference” and also that there were no calls for the resignation or disciplining of the councillors involved.
In fact, on February 16th a large anti-racist picket was held in Dublin, calling for the resignation of Cllr Sean McEniff, who said Travellers should be housed away from settled communities. This event was attended by myself and three other Dublin City Council members – Louise Minihan, Mannix Flynn and Damien Farrell. In addition, messages of support were sent to the protest from councillors Christy Burke, Anna Quigley, Vincent Jackson, Larry O’Toole and Críona Ní Dhálaigh. I feel it is important that this opposition to anti-Traveller comments, from both the public and elected representatives, is recorded.
Traveller rights activist Hannagh McGinley and Micheál Cholm Mac Giolla Easbuig, a community activist in Donegal, also supported the protest.
Frequent deplorable anti- Traveller comments have created an atmosphere where cowardly thugs believe it is acceptable to burn a Traveller’s home.This Irish form of racism is unacceptable.
The Irish Travellers Movement has called a protest against anti-Traveller racism outside the Dáil on March 13th at 1.30pm. I would encourage as many people to attend this protest as possible. – Yours, etc,