As many as 80% of those who experienced racism or discrimination do not report it. This is one of the findings of a study carried out by UCD-based researcher Dr Patricia Kennedy, published in a report entitled ‘Treated Differently? Evidence of racism and discrimination and racism from a local perspective’. It shows that racism and discrimination are happening in Limerick but victims and witnesses are reluctant to turn to the authorities for assistance. While this particular study documents local manifestations of racism and discrimination, the issues are of global, national and regional significance.
Doras Integration Policy Officer Dr. Matt Cannon described the report as “drawing positive proactive attention to areas where integration is not working at the moment so that we can develop an understanding on which to build change”. He highlighted the recommendations put forward in the report to address the policy and leadership vacuum and inadequate legislative framework.
The findings and recommendations were discussed at a seminar on October 23rd chaired by Anastasia Crickley from NUI Maynooth, which examined the issues relating to racism, reporting and developing responses. The panel included contributions from Shane O’Curry the Director of ENAR Ireland, Dr. Matt Cannon, Integration Policy Officer with Doras Luimní, Garda Racial and Intercultural Officer Sgt Dave McInerney and Community Policing Co-ordinator Sgt. Denis Kennedy.
