Social and cultural issues (incl. languages)

It was recommended by FP that the DCEDIY should increase the “linguistic and cultural capacity of State and State-funded services to provide quality services to non-Irish nationals and non- English speaking clients”. FP also suggested increasing the “linguistic and cultural capacity of frontline and managerial staff in the public and community sector” to help ensure services are delivered in an inclusive manor.

Comhlamh Ireland recommended the provision of anti-racism and human rights training for teachers to “help raise awareness of issues and deepen the understanding of people from different backgrounds”. IDEA echoed this suggestion, stating that the expansion of “awareness-raising and development education programmes in Early Years and Youth sectors will help build more cohesive, inclusive communities”.

The UNHCR recommended the continuing inclusion of a clear objective to ensure equal treatment of asylum seekers, refugees and stateless persons as part of the Department’s SoS. They suggested that this objective be applied as part of the State’s the pandemic response, with the rights and health of these groups continuing to be protected effectively.