Candlelight Vigil-Outside the Fourcourts Dublin, 3.00pm December 19th
Press Release
19th December 2006.
Time for Reflection, Silent Vigil
Travellers are organising a candlelight vigil outside the Fourcourts 3pm on Tuesday the 19th of December to highlight their sense of isolation as Irish citizens and their hurt at the level of abuse that they have endured in recent times with regards to negative public feedback and some media coverage of the acquittal of farmer Padraig Nally.
The vigil will also highlight Traveller’s lack of confidence in the institutions of the State to afford them equal protection under the law. The concern now is that it is acceptable to treat Travellers in a sub-human way thus reinforcing negative stereotypes of Travellers as something to be feared.
The message on this day is one of disappointment in a society that does not value Travellers’ lives. There is an urgent need for increased proactive work to promote and embrace diversity.
Travellers call for acceptance and respect for their small community. They have asked those who support their struggle for equality to join them in solidarity on the day to send a strong message that this injustice needs to stop.
ENDS
For further information please contact Margaret Carr, Galway Traveller Movement/Martin Collins Pavee Point Travellers Centre
Terry Battles, Information Officer, Pavee Point 018780255