Anti-racism training for teachers recommended in 'hard-hitting' Traveller report

The Travellers' Halting Site in Spring Lane, Ballyvolane, Cork. The report said in cases of people wishing to remain living in caravans or mobile homes where they are deficient, they should be immediately replaced through an expanded “loan scheme” or by direct supply by the relevant local authority. Picture: David Keane

Sweeping reforms that could have a "dramatic impact" on the lives of Travellers should include a ring-fenced health budget within the HSE, anti-racism training for teachers and cutting back on the use of reduced timetables in school, and a national Traveller employment action plan, according to a new Oireachtas report.

The Oireachtas Joint Committee on Key Issues affecting the Traveller Community said the "achievable and hard-hitting recommendations" in the report should include specific hiring targets for Travellers in public service and Civil Service bodies, and an urgent audit of living conditions in all Traveller-specific and halting sites, with immediate action to address any deficiencies.