Discrimination cases moved to courts

THE decision by Justice Minister Michael McDowell to transfer certain discrimination cases from the Equality Tribunal to the district courts was branded a retrograde step yesterday by the Equality Authority.

One of Ireland’s leading travellers’ rights groups also criticised the decision as a “kick in the teeth” to minorities.

Under the Intoxicating Liquor Bill announced by the minister on Tuesday, jurisdiction in cases of alleged discrimination in pubs will now rest with district judges.