Travellers

Travellers are an indigenous minority who,
historical sources confirm, have been part of
Irish society for centuries.

Traveller's long shared history, cultural values,
language, customs and traditions make them
a self-defined group, and one which is recognisable
and distinct. Their culture and way of life, of which
nomadism is an important factor, distinguishes
them from the sedentary (settled) population.

There are an estimated 25,000 Travellers in Ireland
and it is estimated that an additional 15,000 Irish
Travellers live in Britain, with a further 10,000
Travellers of Irish descent living in the
United States of America.

Travellers, as individuals and as a group,
experience a high level of prejudice and exclusion
in Irish society. Many have to endure living in
intolerable conditions, with approximately one
third having to live without access to the basic
facilities of sanitation, water and electricity.
This leads to ongoing health problems among
the Traveller community.

Discrimination and its effects are a daily feature
of Travellers lives.