PLEDGE AGAINST RACISM

The Green Party will launch a 'Pledge against Racism' campaign at their conference 'Racism in Ireland' that will be held in Dublin tomorrow Saturday 14th December 2002. The Pledge is aimed at politicians and all those involved in public life.

It will call on those who sign it to represent the interests of all, regardless of race, sex, colour, religion or any other discriminating factor, and promote good race relations, and reject all forms of racial violence, racial harassment and unlawful racial discrimination. It will also allow for the suspension or removal from office of those who make racist remarks or condone racist actions of others.

"The Taoiseach has appointed TD's known for their racist remarks to Junior Ministries and to Chairs of Dáil Committees. It is now time for all in public life to take a stand against racism," stated Ciarán Cuffe TD, the Green Party's Spokesman on Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

Ivor Callely TD Junior Minister at the Department of Health and Children has said previously that Government should 'get tough' on asylum seekers. Noel O'Flynn, newly appointed chairman of the Dáil Committee on Communications and Natural Resources has accused some asylum seekers as being " spongers and freeloaders".

"These remarks simply fuel the fires of racism", stated Mr. Cuffe. "Those in public life have a duty to protect and support the weakest in society, and I am not convinced that either Mr. O'Flynn or Mr. Callely are adequately fulfilling this role."

The Conference will assist the Green Party in formulating policies appropriate to combating Racism, and promoting and celebrating Ireland's new multicultural identity.

ENDS

For further information contact:

Ciarán Cuffe, TD 087 265 2075 or 677 3372

Stephen Rawson, Press Officer 087 235 7551 or 618 4088