This report summarises the current situation in relation to the provision of services to Travellers in the key areas of accommodation, health, education and employment.
It examines the extent to which data on Travellers is available. It also reviews the two local pilot projects operated in South Dublin County Council and Clare County Council. The objective of these projects was to bring all of the agencies working with Travellers together in partnership, to tackle local issues at a local level. It was envisaged that adopting an inter-agency approach would yield more focused results, whilst avoiding duplication of effort and resources. Effective consultation with local Travellers was essential to the success of these projects.
The priority issues identified in the report are as follows:
- To promote a coordinated interagency approach to the delivery ofservices and supports for Travellers. Integrated Strategic Plans for service delivery should be drawn up for all cities and counties with Traveller populations, following the recommendations derived from the Pilot Projects described in this Report.
- To ensure effective consultation between Travellers, Traveller Organisations and statutory bodies to support the development of interagency cooperation and to facilitate improved communications, including conflict resoulution, at national, regional and local level.
- To ensure that law enforcement is included as part of the proposed integrated approach.
Report of the High Level Group on Traveller Issues (PDF – 228KB)