The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (‘the Commission’) provided legal representation to a man who was refused entry to McGettigan’s Pub, Galway City, in June 2023.
The man took a claim against the pub under section 19 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2003 for alleged discrimination in access to a licensed premise on the grounds of his membership of the Traveller Community. The matter was listed for hearing in Galway District Court on 5 November 2024. The parties agreed to have the matter struck out, with no orders made, and the pub issued an apology to the man. In their apology, the pub said that it “acknowledges that [the man] ought not to have been refused entry to the licensed premises” and further that it “acknowledges the hurt and embarrassment caused to [the man] and his companions by the refusal and apologises for the refusal and the hurt and embarrassment caused.” The Commission provides legal advice and representation to members of the Traveller community in relation to difficulties faced in accessing hospitality services, and other services such as housing and education. ENDS/ For further information, please contact: Sarah Clarkin, IHREC Communications Manager, 01 8592641 / 087 4687760 sarah.clarkin@ihrec.ie Follow us on twitter @_IHREC
Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission
The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission is an independent public body, appointed by the President and directly accountable to the Oireachtas. The Commission has a statutory remit set out under the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act (2014) to protect and promote human rights and equality in Ireland, and build a culture of respect for human rights, equality and intercultural understanding in the State.