The Irish Traveller Movement in Britain

The Irish Traveller Movement in Britain has been funded by London Councils to ensure that the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) communities of London are meaningfully involved in the decision making processes and policies affecting their life choices, particularly ensuring involvement and participation in the monitoring of site delivery in London. 

GRT communities experience some of the most extreme marginalisation.  With Health for example, the infant mortality rate is 3 times the national average, life expectancy for males is 20 years less than national average and for women 12 years less.  With accommodation authorized sites are increasingly becoming overcrowded forcing the community to move into bricks and mortar or settle on unauthorized sites and therefore come into conflict with the law.  With the press it is still the case that GRT are subject to overt discrimination and prejudice, despite their recognition in the Race Relations Amendment Act 2000 that identifies Gypsies and Travellers as distinct ethnic groups.  In short GRT communities are still somewhat of a minority within a minority. 

The London Council funded project seeks to address some of these deep rooted issues through working closely with the community to ensure their participation and representation on those groups and forums that affect their life choices. 

For further information please contact Phil Regan Tel: 0207 607 2002 
Email: Philip@irishtraveller.org.uk

 

this page last updated 28th April 2009