Submitted by Galway Traveller Movement, Misleór For Galway Traveller Movement, Misleór is not simply a festival. It is a statement of pride, a political act, and a space where Traveller and nomadic communities can be seen, heard and celebrated on their own terms. Since 1994, Galway Traveller Movement has been at the forefront of community…
By Patrick Nevin St. Joseph’s National School in Rathkeale, County Limerick are well known for its deep culture of reading. Books line the walls, and stories fill the classroom. Every week, students make a familiar trip to the local library. For years, students have wandered through the shelves, choosing stories from far and wide across…
Travellers’ Voice Magazine is looking for a passionate Reporter / Content Creator to join our team. Travellers’ Voice is the only national publication in Ireland dedicated to promoting the positive stories, voices, and experiences of the Traveller community. We’re now seeking a motivated storyteller to help research, write, and develop engaging content for our magazine…
By Connor Robertson A colourful fibreglass elephant named ‘Nelly’ created by young people from Bray Travellers Community Development Group, is now on display in Bray’s civic offices as part of the Elephant in the Room initiative. The project was funded by CYPSC Wicklow and developed in partnership with Signal Arts Centre. Youth and family…
Submitted by Involve Youth Meath Services Our first youth exchange of 2026 kicked off in Slane Farm Hostel in March with our partners Inspira from Chaves, Portugal. The Portuguese group, consisting of 15 young people & 3 leaders, arrived late on Thursday evening and spent the Friday morning exploring Dublin before the full group came…
Join us for a special Traveller Pride cultural event taking place at the Head Office of Involve Youth Services Project in Monksland, Athlone, on Wednesday, 20th May 2026 at 11:00 am, as we proudly celebrate 35 years of Travellers’ Voice Magazine ~ Ireland’s only publication dedicated to the Traveller Community. This special day will honour Traveller heritage, promote…
We are deeply honoured and grateful to @Changing Ireland for recognising our 35th Anniversary and for featuring Travellers’ Voice Magazine in your Spring Issue 2026. For 35 years, Travellers’ Voice has been committed to shining a light on issues affecting the Traveller community, creating a platform where our voices, stories, and experiences can be shared…
By Rachel Kellaghan Shakira Mongan is turning her beliefs into actions in an inspirational fundraising campaign for Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital. The 19-year-old who lives in Leicester comes from proud Irish parents. Her strong roots in the catholic church have led to her ambition to help others. Her family, in particular, her brother and younger…
Travellers’ Voice Magazine is looking for a passionate Reporter / Content Creator to join our team. Travellers’ Voice is the only national publication in Ireland dedicated to promoting the positive stories, voices, and experiences of the Traveller community. We’re now seeking a motivated storyteller to help research, write, and develop engaging content for our magazine…
Submitted by Treasa Sheahan A much-loved community radio show is back on the airwaves this January! Community Health Matters, from the West Limerick Primary Healthcare Project for Travellers (West Limerick Resources), is making a welcome return on West Limerick 102fm. First aired over ten years ago, the programme quickly became a trusted space for open…
2026 Ethnicity Week starts on Monday, 2nd March 2026 – for more details, click the link below for the full programme of events. Alternatively, contact Elaine Ryan, elaine.m.ryan@universityofgalway.ie, for further details. https://www.universityofgalway.ie/…/Traveller-Ethnicity… https://www.universityofgalway.ie/…/outreach/accessevents/
Galway International Arts Festival Launches €45,000 Elevate Bursary Programme for Galway Artists – Open to artists, collectives, and groups across ALL art forms Applications from those currently underrepresented in the Irish arts sector are strongly encouraged, including artists of colour, members of the Traveller community, artists who identify as LGBTQ+, migrants, and artists with disabilities.…
By Connor Robertson Imbolc, falling on the 1st of February, marks the first quiet stirring of spring. It’s the festival that bridges the long, dark nights of winter with the first signs of returning light. In pre-Christian Ireland, Imbolc was tied to the fertility of the land and livestock, to the birth of lambs and…
By Rachel Kellaghan Rethink Ireland recently celebrated the launch of its Equity in Education Fund report. Many students from the Traveller community and other backgrounds face barriers to education. The event highlighted the crucial work needed to address educational inequalities prevalent throughout Ireland. Introduced by Professor Judith Harford, the Equity in Education Fund report highlighted…
By Patrick Nevin Music has a way of finding the people it belongs to, and for Jerry O’Connor, it found him when he was just eight years old. In 1979, he picked up his very first tin whistle, inspired by his brother, who was taking lessons in school. At home, the air was always filled…
By Rachel Kellaghan The Women’s Group from Clare Traveller Community Development Group launched their Cookery Book, Traditional & Modern Traveller Recipes on October 29th at the College of Further Education and Training (FET) in Ennis. The launch of their cookery book celebrates the tradition and heritage that the Women’s Group has worked hard to document,…
By Connor Robertson Gambling is a common activity in Ireland, whether it’s sports, horses, casino or online. For most people, it remains an occasional form of entertainment. But for a growing number, gambling can become something more serious. Something that affects finances, relationships, and mental health. This is known as problem gambling, and recent data suggests it may be…
Would you like to shape the future of Traveller Children and Young People’s participation and outcomes in Tusla services. This initiative from Tusla and in partnership with Laois Traveller Action Group and Dormant Accounts Funding is looking to recruit members for the new Traveller Youth Advisory Group. If you have experience of Tusla Services –…
By Connor Robertson As the evenings darken and a chill creeps into the air, Ireland prepares for one of its oldest festivals, Samhain. Long before Halloween became costumes and sweets, Samhain marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of the dark half of the year. Celebrated from sunset on the 31st of October…
By Mary Mitchell Sometimes the most transformative experiences come from the most unexpected places. For me, that moment arrived when I joined a podcasting course, a collaborative initiative between Blanchardstown Adult Services (BAES) and the Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group (BTDG). It was through this partnership that I first encountered the Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group (BTDG),…
By Connor Robertson Just three years ago, Aaron O’Loughlin from Galway City picked up a few balloons and started crafting simple event decorations. Today, he’s the proud owner of O’Loughlin Elegant Events Galway, a flourishing décor business that spans across Ireland and soon, the UK. First Steps“I started off with some small balloons and…
On Thursday, 9th October 2025, Traveller and Roma representatives will gather at the Ashling Hotel, Dublin, for the first National Traveller and Roma Forum under the NTRIS II (2024–2028) action plan. The Forum was created under Action 74 of NTRIS II, building on calls from community organisations for a stronger structure of dialogue and accountability.…
REMINDER: Applications close 26th September! Don’t miss your chance to apply for the Civil Service Traveller and Roma Placement Programme. A 12-month, paid opportunity with a pathway to permanency for members of the Traveller and Roma communities. Deadline: Thursday, 26th September 2025 Apply now and take the next step towards…
It’s never been easy to be a teenager, but in the age of smartphones and 24/7 social media, it can seem overwhelming, and so very different to the adolescence that so many of us remember. Growing up in today’s world isn’t easy for anyone, but for young Travellers the challenges are enormous: racism, discrimination, financial…
Submitted by John Boyle Events focused on heritage, mental health, and community pride draw strong turnout and praise from organisers TRAVELLERS from across Ireland came together in May to mark Traveller Pride Week with two standout events in Galway, celebrating Traveller heritage, mental wellbeing, and the passing down of culture across generations. The events were…
Submitted By Agnita Kenny Traveller activist Nan Joyce (1940 to 2018) family and friends joined Carlow College, St Patrick’s Civic Engagement Hub on 16th April to rename a room in honour of her ground-breaking activistism for Traveller human rights. Born Ann O’Donoghue in Tipperary, her father taught her the traditional Traveller language, Cant, and shared…
Following the successful pilot of the Student Accommodation Assistance for the 2024/2025 academic year – The Student Accommodation Assistance Scheme returns for the 2025/2026 academic year, funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS) through Dormant Accounts Funding. This scheme is designed to reduce the barriers that students from…
Exciting Opportunity for Traveller and Roma Communities: Apply for the Civil Service Placement Programme! Are you a member of the Traveller or Roma community and interested in building a long-term career in the Civil Service? This is your chance! Pavee Point and Involve CLG are working together to support applicants for the Traveller and Roma…
By Connor Robertson As the cost of living continues to rise, many families are looking for simple ways to make their food budgets stretch further. One often overlooked area is how we store our food. Poor storage can lead to food going off too soon, unsafe meals, and more food waste than we realise.…
We’re Now Accepting Applications! Ready to join us? You can apply by email or post—just check the flyer above for all the contact details. Deadline: Make sure we receive your application by 5 PM on Wednesday 13th August 2025. Don’t miss out—get your application in on time!
By Connor Robertson In today’s digital world, information spreads quickly through news websites, social media, and messaging platforms. While this allows people to access news and opinions instantly, it also increases the risk of encountering false or misleading content. Digital and media literacy is essential for understanding and evaluating the information we come across every…
By Connor Robertson For nearly four decades, Brú Bhríde has been a vital hub for community development in Tuam. Originally founded in 1986 as the Tuam Traveller Support Group, the organisation later became known as Brú Bhríde, taking on the name of the building itself. While the organisation still holds Traveller advocacy at its core,…
By Connor Robertson Scams have become part of everyday life, and not just for people who are ‘bad with tech’. In fact, scams are getting smarter, more believable, and harder to spot than ever before. Whether it’s a fake delivery text, a dodgy email, or a too good to be true ad, online scams…
Starting 1st to 17th JULY Looking to build your confidence, learn new skills, and explore what’s next for you in education or work? This FREE programme — run by the Access Centre and the University of Sanctuary at University of Galway— they are there to support you every step of the way. Join a respectful,…
As the days get warmer and the summer draws closer, there’s nothing like a swim in the sea or a dip in a lake. For many of us, it’s a favourite way to enjoy the outdoors, especially under the summer sun. However, with water comes the responsibility of staying safe. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer…
Munster Technological University is the southwest’s newest technological university consisting of six campuses across Cork and Kerry. The University has a student body of 18,000. It is a leader in higher education both regionally and internationally through the provision of a wide range of programmes ranging from apprenticeships and undergraduate degrees to Master’s and PhDs…
A Milestone of Progress and Advocacy By Connor Robertson The 10th anniversary of the Traveller Justice Initiative (TJI) was a powerful reminder of the strides made in advocating for the rights and dignity of Travellers in Ireland, highlighting the collective work that has reshaped how the justice system engages with the Traveller community.…
This is a free ticketed event. Have you or your organisation registered yet? Deadline for registration is 9th of May! Register via Link: HERE Get ready for a day filled with fun, powerful conversations, and inspiring activities! We’ve lined up amazing panellists, interactive sessions to participate in, and plenty of chances to connect and share.…
Events Coordinator Invitation to tender: Overview The Traveller Pride Steering Committee wishes to contract an Events Coordinator to deliver and manage the Traveller Pride Week Concert. The concert is the national event celebrating Traveller Pride Week, which is coordinated by the Traveller Pride Steering Committee and funded by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration…
In Conversation with Jeanne McDonagh By Connor Robertson In a recent report by the Trinity Centre for Social Innovation, half of the country’s 50 largest companies were found to be falling short of human rights benchmarks. However, there is hope. A growing number of businesses are not only meeting these standards but are leading the…
The Department of Education has unveiled the Traveller and Roma Education Strategy (TRES) 2024–2030, marking a significant step toward addressing educational inequalities faced by Traveller and Roma communities in Ireland. This strategy represents a dedicated effort to create an inclusive, equitable, and culturally respectful education system that prioritises meaningful and lasting change. By placing the…
A Glitch of the Mind’
© Paul James Kearney,
By Ruth Guy In the complex world of social work, few roles are as vital as that of a fostering social worker. Jacqui Smyth, a seasoned professional with nearly two decades of experience, embodies the commitment and empathy required to navigate this challenging field. Having transitioned from residential care to foster care, Smyth has witnessed…
As Christmas approaches, the issue of homelessness in Ireland takes on a new urgency. The latest statistics reveal a staggering reality: over 12,000 individuals are currently recorded as homeless, including nearly 4,000 children, according to the Department of Housing. These figures underscore not just a statistic but a profound crisis affecting families across the nation.…
In October, Pavee Point shared its ‘Recovery is Possible’ campaign, which offered insight into community members, their struggles with addiction, and that the support is available to face the challenges of overcoming it. One of the many challenges people might encounter. During recovery is the feeling of isolation. Below, we look at some ways to stay…
Thomas McCann is a counsellor, PhD Scholar, Traveller activist, and the Director of the Traveller Counselling Service. Our readers may have seen him recently as he was featured prominently in the RTE documentary Patrick: A Young Traveller Lost. In this interview, we spoke with Thomas about Mental Health and societal issues that affect the Traveller…
By Ruth Guy When a child enters care, it’s often because their parents face challenges that impact their ability to provide stable support. To give these parents the time and space to overcome difficulties, their child is placed in alternative care, ideally with extended family. But when this isn’t possible, social workers turn to foster…
By Crystal Reaney No Shame Mental Health Youth Event for young people from the Traveller Community took place in Longford Arms Hotel on February 15th, 2024. The event aimed to invite young Travellers to a youth mental health event to discuss mental health and participate in various interactive mental health activities. This event was all…
By Roseleen Mc Donagh November 23, 2023, the weather is mild enough. The winter evenings are long. Christmas lights create a warm, gentle atmosphere in the city. Reuben’s room is dimly lit by a single flickering bulb, casting long shadows across the worn carpet. The peeling paint on the walls reveals layers of history, each…
By Maiya Mc Monagle Embark on an intimate exploration of the personal journey of Tayem Mercer, a distinguished sales coach, visionary leader, and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience. Beyond the accolades and successes lies a profound story of resilience and triumph over mental health challenges. As a seasoned public speaker, Tayem imparts wisdom…
By Annemarie Gaynor Chronic pain is a condition that is often invisible, which means that no one, including your doctor, friends, or family, can see it. Unlike other health conditions, there may not be any visible signs or scars that indicate the presence of pain. Living with chronic pain can be a lonely experience, as…
We look forward to attending as many events as possible this year. We want to know all about the events taking place around the country. So, get in touch and let us know what events you have planned.
Jane Connors is a 22-year-old woman from the Traveller community who, after finishing school in 2018, spent two years seeking employment before becoming an employee of Mr Price. Starting as a sales assistant, Jane progressed to duty manager after just one year before taking up the post of assistant manager. Jane shares her journey with…
According to a 2023 survey by the Menopause Hub, of over 3,000 women at various stages of Menopause, over 87% believe that Menopause is still a taboo subject. Although 93%, according to the survey, do feel it is more acceptable to discuss it, many women still think that they are unprepared for either Menopause or…
Image: “Connemara Reflections”
by Eugene T Cunningham AAPS, NPS
Social media has become an essential part of our daily routine, as it enables us to keep in touch with our loved ones, share our opinions, and showcase our creativity. However, it is crucial to bear in mind that social media can also pose various risks, such as cyberbullying, identity theft, and online scams. Therefore,…
Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences like autism and ADHD are a natural and valuable part of human experience. The exact percentage of neurodiverse people versus neurotypical people in Ireland remains to be determined, as reliable statistics in this area are unavailable. However, according to a study by the National Council for Special Education…
Tusla and Traveller Families Care recently held an event to express gratitude for their collaborative work with the Travelling Community. The event, which took place on Monday, November 13th, celebrated their joint Project under the National Traveller and Roma Inclusion Strategy. The Project aims to increase the number of culturally appropriate foster homes available…
When reaching out to Someone who may be experiencing abuse, it’s essential to choose a time and place that is quiet and calm. Allowing enough time for the person to open up and share their feelings is essential, even if it takes longer than expected. You don’t want to shorten the conversation because of…
Changing Perceptions and Challenging Stereotypes By Elizebeth O Leary As part of Travellers’ Pride, the Irish Travellers Movement organised an event at the Shamrock Hotel Athlone, highlighting young changemakers from the Traveller Community. The panellists on the day included James Stokes, Emma Ward and Laticia McCrudden, who discussed issues affecting young people from the community.…
Submitted by Patrick Mc Donagh I recently embarked on a journey to Strasbourg, France, representing Eurodesk Ireland as a youth delegate at the European youth event 2023.Being the only Irish Traveller in attendance, I realized the significance of Traveller representation at such events, given the limited opportunities our community often faces. Through his participation, he…
The Impact of Discrimination on the Traveller Community Elizabeth O Leary Discrimination is the ‘unfair or unjust treatment towards those of a different background, race, religion, gender or disability’. Discrimination is a global problem which negatively impacts many marginalised people, and the Traveller Community are arguably one of the most discriminated against people in…
By Elizebeth O Leary Thousands of people worldwide experience mental health problems each year. However, a significant negative attitude, or stigma, is still associated with mental health. This stigma can lead to discrimination and adverse treatment in all aspects of life for those with mental health issues. Unfortunately, this stigma and discrimination can worsen people’s…
By Elizebeth O Leary Life can be full of unexpected hurdles, and when a family member faces chronic or long-term illness, this can be one of the biggest challenges for loved ones and those who care for them. But somehow or another, we conquer and press onward. Caring for a sick family member can be…
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during certain seasons of the year, usually winter or summer. Symptoms The symptoms and causes of SAD are: Some people may have different symptoms depending on the season. For example, people with winter SAD may experience oversleeping, weight gain, and low energy, while people…
By Annemarie Gaynor Christmas is often seen as a time of happiness and excitement. Festivities often highlight the things we are grateful for, and this feeling of gratitude can also increase our sense of wellbeing. Developing a positive perspective Even if we can’t be with our loved ones, technology has made it possible to spend…
Autism: Your child received a diagnosis…don’t despair! By Rosemarie Maughan When you finally get the diagnosis your child is autistic don’t despair; being autistic is not a tragedy, but a neurological difference which is to be understood and embraced. It’s going to be ok. The best thing you can do now for your child is…
Owen Ward, the first Traveller to be elected to NUI Galway’s Governing Body gives us all a lesson in unflinching determination! By Miriam Kerins Owen Ward is a proud Irish Traveller man who left school at the age of 16 without having the benefit of either a Junior or a Leaving Certificate. However, rather than…
By Rose Marie Maughan I am a Traveller woman from Ballinrobe, County Mayo. Like many Traveller women, I became a human rights activist in 2004 after having enough of both external and internal oppression as a Traveller woman. I have been blessed to work within the Irish Traveller Movement ever since in various different positions.…
By John Madden Across the country there are several horse projects in operation. One such project is the Offaly Traveller Movement (OTM). The project began as a six-month pilot scheme and after a successful trial run; it was decided to continue it and to roll out a separate one in Laois. These began in 2011…
The number of reported cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) in Ireland has continued to increase in the past three weeks. People in high-risk groups are urged to get vaccinated against influenza. Influenza is expected to increase over the coming weeks and to circulate for at least the next 4 to 6 weeks. Seasonal flu Seasonal…
By Noelle Mann Growing up and accepting yourself and your identity is tough for everyone. Belonging to an ethnic minority group can make things even more complicated, and many Irish Travellers and Roma struggle to find their place in Irish society. If you also add in the issue of sexuality or feeling that your…
By John Madden and Noelle Mann During the week of the 9th to 16th October, Arthritis Ireland ran an awareness campaign to create a great understanding of the hugely common condition that affects so many people across the island of Ireland and beyond. For many, Arthritis can be a massive setback in life and can…
By Tracie Joyce Wouldn’t it be great if we lived in a world where every woman and child could look forward to living a life free from abuse? As we enter 2017, sadly, studying the shocking statistics, that situation doesn’t look set to be a reality any time soon as it appears domestic…
Does Self-Medication Equal Self Destruction? We take a look at the balance between self-help and self-harm and ask the question – When does the substance become the presence in one’s life? By John Madden Let’s be frank, substance abuse is widespread) and there does not seem to be any end in sight. We turn on…
This article is taken from our archives and was published in The Voice of the Traveller Magazine (Now known as Voice of the Traveller Magazine) by David Lynch. The fatal shootings of two British soldiers and a PSNI officer by ‘dissident’ republicans in 2011 fired the North back into the headlines. Over 3,000 people lost…
Resilience can be described as the person’s capacity to overcome adversity or how well somebody can ‘bounce back’ from some form of knock, be it a traumatic event like the loss of a loved one or even a pet. The experience of loss can shape us as we grow as individual people, take for example…
By David Lynch Author and photojournalist Noel Mullins has written a history of horse fairs and trading in Ireland. His fascination began in the 1950s as a young Loughrea boy. Every year he watched Travellers with colourful horses and ponies walk past his house as they headed for the Ballinasloe Horse Fair. David Lynch met…
Old religious traditions like the ‘Travelling Mary’ are kept alive across the country. While new ones such as a multi-cultural mass at Christmas are growing from strength to strength. Here Ellen McDonagh writes about Christmas traditions among Travellers in her own Co. Meath community. Christmas is a very special time for the majority of Travellers.…
By David Lynch Christmas is a time of faith and family for Travellers. Thousands of Irish Travellers live in Britain and many will return for the festive season. David Lynch spoke to Martin Moloney-Naughton, ex Irish Traveller Co-ordinator for the North of England. For many Travellers the Irish Sea is not an important barrier. Family…
