Mayo TD backs young traveller in discrimination stand

 

A MEMBER of the traveller community in Castlebar has highlighted his concerns over being refused entry to a number of public houses in the town.

Jason Collins turned to Facebook to express his ‘embarrassment and shame’ after being turned away from premises over the Easter period.

He stated: “I’ve been born and raised in Castlebar and have resided in the town for all of my 20 years. In that time, I have never suffered as much embarrassment and shame in my whole life as I did (on the occasion in question).

“I regard myself as a quiet young lad but I’m afraid it doesn’t work like that. I was refused entry to various local pubs and I was given no particular reason when I asked for one.

“When I showed my ID I was told to put it in your pocket and leave the pub. The system needs a serious shake up. I feel it’s creating tension and division between both travellers and settled community.

“Some things will never change. We will always be classed differently. It is discrimination and it feels humiliating.

“I was highly disgusted and ashamed when it happened a second time. I was told on that occasion by the publician that he would lose customers if he served me.

“This is going down a long road and I am considering taking legal action. I have my rights too.”

Jason has support in his stand from newly-elected Mayo Fianna Fáil Deputy Lisa Chambers who said the young man in question should not be discriminated against without any basis.

“My understanding is that he is well-behaved. So a person who does not cause problems should not be treated in this fashion.

“I understand that publicians have experienced difficulties with some members of the traveller community who did not behave themselves. But all members of the community should not be tarred with the same brush. Everybody should be given a fair chance,” she said.