28th November 2002

PRESS RELEASE

NIGERIAN JOURNALIST TO ADDRESS IRISH RACISM CONFERENCE

A Nigerian Journalist and an Irish Traveller are amongst the speakers at a Conference entitled “Racism in Ireland –Only Irish Need Apply’ oblivious of the differences” to be hosted by the Green Party in Dublin on Saturday 7th December.

“It is important that we recognise the positive contribution that diversity brings to Irish life,” stated Ciarán Cuffe TD, “however there is a sinister side to the changes in Ireland over the last few years. It is crucial that we confront the challenge that racism poses in modern Ireland. This conference shall attempt to address this issue.

Speakers include the following:

Shalini Sinha – RTE’s Mono programme

Catherine Joyce – Irish Traveller Movement     

Josephine Olusola –Nigerian Journalist and Writer

Ursula Fraser – Amnesty International Irish Section

Catherine Lynch – National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism

Workshops shall address the themes of racism and the media; lobbying on racism and addressing diversity.

The Conference will be held in the Swift Theatre in Trinity College between

10 am and 3 pm. The Conference is open to the public and there is no charge for attendance. People can register by phone on 01 618 3083, or by email to info@CiaranCuffe.Com

ENDS

For further information contact:

Ciarán Cuffe, TD      087 265 2075

Denise Clare            618 3082