Equality groups call time on new Bill

EQUALITY groups opposed to the transfer of discrimination cases from the Equality Tribunal to the district court have warned the move could cause the Equal Status Act to collapse.

The proposal to transfer discrimination cases involving licensed premises from the Tribunal to local district courts is contained in the new Intoxicating Liquor Bill.

The coalition of 11 groups, representing human rights, women, disability and Traveller groups, are set to go head-to-head with Justice Minister Michael McDowell next week over the controversial proposal.