I propose to take Questions Nos. 636, 637 and 646 together.
The Anti-racism Policy and Funds Administration Unit formed part of the International Protection and Integration Division within the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) which transferred to my Department with effect from May 1 last in line with the Programme for Government 2025.
A primary focus is monitoring the implementation of Ireland’s National Action Plan Against Racism (NAPAR). This is a cross-Government programme as the Deputy will appreciate that racism is an issue that necessitates action by Government, public bodies, private bodies, communities and individuals.
The Government’s endorsement of the Global Guidelines for Countering Anti-semitism and the IHRA working definition of anti-semitism supports our wider commitment to addressing discrimination in all its forms, through implementation of the plan. That implementation will progress during 2025 and beyond.
In relation to the Deputy's questions on protection of people across a range of potential circumstances, the rights of individuals and groups in Ireland are protected under the Constitution, and by extensive sectoral legislation and regulation, including equality and employment legislation, among others.
