Wexford to Benefit from €3.2 Million Anti-Racism Fund as Minister Warns of Growing Division

County Wexford is among the areas set to benefit from a new €3.2 million Government funding package aimed at tackling racism and promoting inclusion in schools, workplaces and local communities.

Minister of State for Migration Colm Brophy has announced funding for 34 organisations nationwide under the Ireland Against Racism Fund 2026.

Speaking on South East Radio's Morning Mix, Minister Brophy confirmed that Wexford will benefit from initiatives being delivered through the Irish Traveller Movement and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.

The Irish Traveller Movement is receiving €250,000 for its Yellow Flag programme, which promotes equality, respect and cultural awareness in schools.

While the funding covers several counties, the Minister confirmed that some of the programme's activities will benefit County Wexford.

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions is also receiving approximately €93,000 for an initiative aimed at tackling racism in workplaces, including in Wexford.

Minister Brophy said the funding would support organisations working to challenge prejudice and bring people from different backgrounds together.

He highlighted the importance of school programmes, sporting activities, community workshops and other initiatives that encourage people to interact and better understand one another.

"When people get to meet and get to interact together, that's the quickest way of stopping racism," he told Morning Mix.

The Minister also expressed concern about what he described as attempts by a small section of society to exploit divisions and target people who have moved to Ireland.

He pointed out that many migrants are working in essential services, including healthcare, construction and caring professions.

He said it was particularly upsetting that children born and raised in Ireland were experiencing racism.

Minister Brophy stressed that tackling racism was a responsibility shared by Government, the media, schools and community organisations.

The €3.2 million funding package will be distributed across the successful organisations over the coming years, with approximately €1.5 million expected to be spent during the remainder of this year and the early months of 2027.

The Ireland Against Racism Fund supports the Government's National Action Plan Against Racism, which aims to promote equality, challenge discrimination and strengthen community relations throughout Ireland.