Addressing inequality in Irish workplaces that have increasing numbers of migrant workers.
The Equality Authority has launched Anti-Racist Workplace Week to promote full equality for the growing number of non Irish nationals working in the country.
An increasing number of migrant workers are complaining of racial discrimination in the workplace.
Migrant workers are making a substantial contribution to the Irish economy.
Four out of ten complaints made to the Equality Authority relate directly to racial discrimination on the grounds of inadequate pay, annual leave entitlements and excessive working hours. There are also cases of unfair dismissal.
Anti-Racist Workplace Week calls on employers to put in place working arrangements to address these issues through the provision of induction training for migrant workers, as well as equality and diversity training for all workers. Employers are also being encouraged to provide migrant workers with information on English language classes and translate relevant materials into the required languages.
Niall Crowley, CEO of the Equality Authority, says that the success of the Irish economy depends on migrant workers. In this context, inequality is bad for the economy as well as the workers concerned.
Groups working with migrant communities have welcomed the Anti Racist Workplace Week to raise the issues facing those who have come from abroad to work in Ireland. They also call for government legislation to be introduced to protect migrant workers.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 7 November 2005. The reporter is Niamh Nolan.
