Equality groups slam changes in discrimination law

A coalition of 11 civil rights groups has expressed its anger at Government plans to water down equality legislation to appease publicans.

The Equality Coalition, which includes the Irish Council for Civil Liberties and the Irish Traveller Movement, said sections of the proposed Intoxicating Liquor Bill are designed to make it more difficult for people to take legal action on the grounds of discrimination.

The bill requires people to take discrimination cases to the District Courts instead of the Equality Tribunal, which currently has jurisdiction in this area.

The Equality Coalition said the new legislation is a step backward on the right to redress for victims of discrimination.