Racial Equality Unit Publications

This statement sets out how Lord Rooker, OFMDFM Minister, intends to take forward a Race Equality Strategy for Northern Ireland.

The Racial Equality Strategy for Northern Ireland 2005 - 2010 provides a framework to tackle racial inequalities in Northern Ireland and to open up opportunity for all; to eradicate racism and hate crime; and together with A Shared Future – Policy and Strategic Framework for Good Relations in Northern Ireland, to initiate actions to promote good race relations.

This document sets out a consultation draft of the Race Equality Strategy. It proposes seven strategic aims that Government in Northern Ireland will pursue in tackling inequalities and the principles that underpin the strategic aims. It provides a framework for action by individual departments and agencies. It also sets out how departments will work in partnership with others in pursuit of the strategic aims.

The Promoting Social Inclusion Working Group was set up to consider difficulties which Travellers face and to suggest ways of tackling them. The Working Group has set out in its report 33 recommendations. They cover important issues like Traveller accommodation, health, education, training and policing.

The Race Relations (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 was amended by the Race Relations Order (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 to implement requirements of the EU Race Directive 2003/43/EC. These amendments give people greater protection from unlawful racial discrimination and harassment on the grounds of race, ethnic or national origins.