Education system failing town’s large Traveller population

PROBLEMS of segregation and unemployment in Rathkeale are being exacerbated by an education system failing the town’s 40% Traveller community.

Limerick County Council will today discuss a regeneration initiative for the town whose 1,900 population has a settled/Traveller ratio of 60:40. Local councillors say a town czar needs to be appointed with an all-embracing brief, similar to that given to former Dublin city manager John Fitzgerald, who currently co-ordinates the work of various agencies in Limerick city.

Fianna Fáil councillors Niall Collins and John Griffin suggested the west Limerick town warrants a similar plan because of its special needs and unique demographic make-up.