There is an interesting story in the media this morning about two traveller boys and their wish to joint their local football club, Wayside Celtic.
The two boys, aged 8 and 9, were refused membership last year. The official in question had referred to trouble caused to the club’s fences by “their group of people”.
He also said it was too late in the season and teams were “already full”.
The WRC (Workplace Relations Commission) has ordered that the boys, and other traveller children at the adjoining halting site, be invited to a “soccer fun day” at the club.
The adjudicator also ordered that the club give the boys €50 vouchers for Smyths toys and to set aside €1,000 for the children’s fun day with local children.
The adjudicator sensibly recognised that the imposition of a harsh financial penalty for the “technical” discrimination under the Equal Status Acts could be counterproductive and diminish the relationship between the two communities.
He also directed that Wayside Celtic appoint a voluntary community liaison officer to help build bridges with the Traveller community next door.
The official in the club in question has stepped down but the adjudicator has recognised his many years’ of service and one bad day phone call should not take from this.
Learn more about discrimination in the provision of goods and services.