60th Anniversary Report Of The Commission On Itinerancy 1963

Outside The Colony

Bernard Sweeney and Dilean Foley are joined by experts Patrick Nevin ,Elaine Martin and Robbie McVeigh The report of the Commission on Itinerancy, released in 1963, marked a significant turning point in the Irish government's approach to the Irish Traveller community. For the first time, the government made a concerted effort to "settle" Travellers and integrate them into mainstream society. While this report may have had good intentions, it ultimately had devastating consequences for the Traveller community. For centuries, Irish Travellers had been viewed as outsiders a people apart from mainstream society. Subjected to discrimination, marginalization, and violence. The 1963 report reinforced these negative stereotypes and further entrenched Travellers in a position of powerlessness and disadvantage. The COI (Commission on Itinerancy) report classified Travellers as a "social problem" and proposed a range of measures designed to assimilate them into mainstream society. These measures included the construction of "Traveller halting sites" on the outskirts of towns and cities, the creation of a network of "Traveller training centres," and the introduction of education and employment initiatives designed to "civilize" Travellers where years of institutionalised abuses became the norm for many Travellers, including children. The impact of these measures was devastating. Travellers were forced from their traditional way of life and into a way of life that was alien to them. They were denied access to the same opportunities and resources as the Settled Irish community and were subjected to further discrimination and abuse. The psychological damage caused by the COI report can not be overstated. It has left a legacy of trauma that has affected generations of Travellers and has contributed to the high levels of mental health problems and suicide within the community. Today, 60 years after the release of the COI report, it is more important than ever that we address the living trauma caused by this report and work towards a more inclusive society. We are raising funds to produce a podcast series that will explore the impact of the Report From The Commission On Itinerancy and the ongoing struggles of Traveller community. This series will provide a platform for Travellers to tell their stories and will be an important resource for anyone seeking to understand the issues facing Irish marginalised communities by clandestine colonial powers. Acknowledging and addressing past trauma can lead to improved mental health outcomes. Facing and working through difficult experiences can lead to personal growth and development. Recognizing and acknowledging the impact of historical events on current circumstances can facilitate a deeper understanding and empathy for oneself and others. Examining how past traumas have been passed down through generations can help to break negative patterns and create a healthier future for all. Facing and addressing past trauma can help to create a sense of closure and resolution, leading to a sense of peace and healing. Examining how systems and institutions have contributed to trauma and oppression can help to bring about necessary changes and build on our democracy for a more equal society. We are fully unfunded and rely on donations to keep our podcast series running. Your support will help us to continue to shed light on the experiences of Travellers and to work towards a more inclusive and understanding society. Please consider donating today and help us to create a better world for all people. Previous podcasts on "Outside The Colony" podcasts. https://anchor.fm/travision --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/travision/message