Frances Fitzgerald
Question:373 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will initiate action to deal with the growing problem of racism here. [17935/00]
Vol. 522 No. 2
373 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will initiate action to deal with the growing problem of racism here. [17935/00]
In July 1998, I established the National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism. The committee is a partnership of non-governmental organisations, State agencies, social partners and Departments. Its overall aim is to develop an integrated approach against racism and to encourage integrated action towards the promotion of a more participative and intercultural society which is inclusive of persons such as refugees, Travellers and minority ethnic groups in Ireland. The NCCRI is funded by my Department and it has been allocated £150,000 to fund its programme of activities in 2000. It has also been provided with an office and facilities in Dublin.
The report of the interdepartmental working group on the integration of refugees, which was published last December, emphasised the importance of promoting a tolerant inclusive society. The working group's report has been accepted by Government as the framework for refugee integration policy in Ireland.
One of the main recommendations of the working group related to public awareness. The group recommended that the National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism should have a central role in co-ordinating public awareness initiatives and in disseminating information on anti-racism issues and respect for cultural diversity. The Government has agreed on the need for initiatives to combat racism and racist attacks through informing public opinion and promoting a more tolerant inclusive society. It has approved proposals for an evaluation of the working group strategy and the resources needed to plan, implement and review the development of such initiatives, within a very short time frame. The NCCRI is carrying out this evaluation. The evaluation is due to be completed soon and I intend to bring proposals for comprehensive public awareness initiatives to Government within the next few weeks.