Mr. Laurence Bond:

I wish to add to that It is undoubtedly the case that Ireland, in its presentations to international human rights bodies, accepts and recognises characteristics of the Traveller community, such as its history, different cultural identity and its experience of discrimination, that in themselves are sufficient criteria for recognition as an ethnic group. One of the difficulties associated with this issue and which probably causes some confusion internationally is our position that although we acknowledge and affirm in our reports all the characteristics that are taken in jurisprudence and anthropology as the characteristics that define a group as an ethnic group, and although we affirm these characteristics' importance and significance in determining how one thinks about policy on Travellers, we do not recognise Travellers as an ethnic group. It causes significant confusion simply because it begs the questions as to what exactly is required and what missing criteria are not being fulfilled.

A factor we addressed in our report was the suggestion that there is some academic reason for failing to grant recognition. We found this did not hold. A further issue that may have arisen is the idea that there must be universal consensus. This does not hold either. I have come across a suggestion that it is not so much an issue of principle but that there is a risk of significant costs. I cannot see where they come from.

In many ways, we have acknowledged Traveller ethnicity. With regard to the specific provision in the equal status legislation, there was a specific discussion on adopting a form of description or definition of the Traveller community that recognised its ethnicity. Having done so, we have done much of what is required. The Government has affirmed that. It seems to be counter-productive to achieve all this while holding back on actual recognition, especially with regard to respect and recognition of a people for who they are. With that in mind, it is undoubtedly the case that the approach suggested by my colleague, that is, to have clear political recognition at Government level in the first instance followed by reporting to international bodies, is a clear first step. The issue then arises in practice as to whether something further is required whereby particular issues may be identified. One would have the option at that stage of examining the potential for amendments to our equality legislation or other legislation. If one were to have political recognition and carry this over to the reporting to international bodies, it could be that one would have done most of what needs to be done. One could then deal with whatever additional formal recognition is required as particular issues are identified.