Tullamore Traveller activist welcomes Ireland's first Traveller Heritage Strategy

Tullamore Traveller activist Maureen Ward, has joined Pavee Point in welcoming the publication of the first ever National Traveller Heritage Strategy.

Pavee Point have called the publication, which was launched last Friday, August 14, "a historic step towards validating and preserving Traveller Heritage".

The Strategy acknowledges the central place Traveller culture holds in Irish heritage as storytellers, musicians, tinsmiths and craftspeople.

The new Strategy aims for a much broader awareness of the richness of Traveller heritage and customs, securing Traveller visibility and inclusion in Ireland’s cultural memory.

The launch comes as we step into National Heritage Week with a schedule that includes a range of Traveller-led events focussing on storytelling, music, and memories of travelling life and barrel top wagons.

"We look forward to working with the Heritage Council on the implementation of the new Strategy and building on the important work Traveller organisations are already doing to develop pride, respect and ownership in Traveller identity, ethnicity and culture," a statement by Pavee Point read.