Employers asked to ‘get informed, get active and get support’
The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (‘the Commission’) is today calling on employers across Ireland to open up employment opportunities for members of the Traveller and Roma communities, who continue to face systemic barriers to work due to racism, discrimination and long-standing disadvantage.
Research shows that 61% of Travellers are unemployed, a rate seven times higher than the national average, while 17% of Roma are unemployed, twice the national rate. Discrimination remains a major obstacle, with 75% of Travellers and 60% of Roma in Ireland reporting experiences of discrimination when seeking work, in employment, or when accessing education, healthcare, housing, and other services.
To support employers in addressing these inequalities, the Commission has today published “Traveller and Roma Inclusive Employment – Employer Guide”, a practical resource developed in partnership with Ibec and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU). The guide offers straightforward, actionable steps to help employers create inclusive workplaces and fair employment practices.
Travellers and Roma are eager to contribute their experience, skills, and talents to workplaces across Ireland. By taking steps to remove barriers and promote inclusion, employers can play a vital role in advancing equality and building stronger, more diverse workforces.
Chief Commissioner Liam Herrick said:
“Discrimination should never be a barrier to someone’s right to decent work. Yet we know that too many Travellers and Roma face exclusion long before they reach the workplace, and again once they enter it.
“This guide sets out a clear pathway for employers to show leadership and take practical, proactive steps to ensure that their organisations are safe, respectful, and inclusive. Most importantly, it highlights that employers who embrace inclusion see the clear benefits: stronger teams, wider talent pools and greater innovation. It will also make workplaces more reflective of the communities they serve.
“Traveller and Roma organisations have a highly valuable role to play in partnering with employers to support Traveller and Roma inclusion in the workplace.”
Editor Notes
The “Traveller and Roma Inclusive Employment – Employer Guide” can be accessed at Traveller and Roma Employment Guide
The guidance, developed through IHREC’s Worker and Employer Advisory Committee, is structured around three key steps:
- Get Informed: Understand the experiences of Travellers and Roma in employment, and how racism and discrimination impact access, participation, and career progression.
- Get Active: Partner with Traveller and Roma organisations to develop inclusive recruitment and workplace practices. Case studies from ESB and the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration showcase successful initiatives such as the National Traveller Apprenticeship Incentivisation Programme and the Civil Service Traveller and Roma Work Placement Programme.
- Get Support: Access a directory of resources and contacts to help employers take meaningful, supported action.