What is discrimination?

Discrimination is treating someone differently than you would another person based on a perceived difference. Legally under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) every child and young person has equal rights. It is wrong to discriminate against another person because they are different from you. How would you like to be treated? There are lots of situations in which people can experience discrimination. The most common types of discrimination in Ireland are based on:

Age, Gender, Sexual orientation, Religion – different religious beliefs, background, outlook,

Disability – physical, intellectual/learning disability, Race – a particular race, skin colour, nationality or ethnic origin, Being a member of the traveller community.

Because of discrimination people can experience abuse and isolation. People may be passed over for jobs, not picked for teams, bullied or ignored. Treat others the way you would like to be treated.

What law is in place in Ireland to protect me from discrimination?

Employment Equality Act 1998

Equal Status Act 2000

Equality Act 2004

The Employment Equality Act 1998 and the Equal Status Act 2000 have been amended by the Equality Act 2004.The Employment Equality Act 1998 and the Equal Status Act 2000 are now known together as the Employment Equality Acts 1998 and 2004.

If you would like to know more about these go to www.equality.ie

Where can I get help if I feel I am being discriminated against?

The Equality Authority

Dublin Office

2 Clonmel Street,

Dublin 2.

Public information centre
locall – 1890 245 545

Web: www.equality.ie

Email: info@equality.ie