Archbishop slams anti-Traveller comments in presidential campaign

The Archbishop of Cashel and Emly has said he was alarmed by the “inflammatory language” members of the Travelling community and those on welfare were subjected to during the presidential campaign.

In a statement, Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly said that feedback he received from members of the Travelling community and those dependent on financial assistance from the State in order to survive had confirmed his concerns.

“Ill-informed and inflammatory language has caused real hurt, humiliation and heartache. This offensive commentary was particularly virulent on social media,” he said.

“It has been particularly damaging to the Traveller community which has been endeavouring to grow and preserve its ethnic identity as part of our society.”

The archbishop has asked those engaged in projects around Traveller health and well-being to redouble their efforts to ensure that people do not lose courage.

“Travellers are finding themselves at the centre of unwelcome and unfair comment. Our society, which is already unequal, cannot afford to become any more polarised. Whilst the election may be over, unfortunately the consequences of this campaign will continue for many for some time to come,” he said.

“In conclusion, I ask that we commit together, by way of prayer and action, to work to build understanding and solidarity between the Traveller and settled community in Ireland.”