Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 October 2012
410. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will provide local authorities with extra resources to deal with major incidences of racist attacks in local authority housing. [41245/12]
View answerI have no function in relation to the funding of local authorities. However any person subjected to racist abuse should report the matter at their local Garda station, or to any member of An Garda Síochána and the matter will be investigated. Members of the public affected by racism may speak to an Ethnic Liaison Officer, whose function is to liaise with local ethnic communities. Ethnic Liaison Officers have been trained to be particularly aware of the issue of racism and its impact. These officers are available in each Garda Division in the country. If a person needs encouragement or support in reporting a racist incident, they can arrange to meet an Ethnic Liaison Officer at their local Garda station to discuss the matter.
The Garda Racial and Intercultural Office (GRIO) can also be contacted by anyone wishing to seek advice on addressing issues of racism.
