The Minister of State for Community Development, Integration and Charities, Joe O’Brien, made the announcement on 21 September, and confirmed 24 non-government organisations (NGOs) and community organisations will receive €1.3 million to combat racism and foster racial equality and community cohesion.
The Ireland Against Racism Fund is an important element in supporting the implementation of the National Action Plan Against Racism, which was published on 21 March 2023. The funding call arises from Action 2.14 of the plan, which states: ‘‘Provide funding for national and local initiatives that aim to combat racism and foster racial equality and community cohesion, in order to support the implementation of this plan and the achievement of its objectives’’.
DCU Anti-Bullying Centre will receive funding for a mixed methods study to understand and prevent online racism in Ireland. The study will be led by Dr Darragh McCashin, Assistant Professor in DCU School of Psychology and Research Fellow in DCU Anti-Bullying Centre.
DCU Anti-Bullying Centre is known globally for its research excellence in bullying and online safety. Based in DCU’s Institute of Education, the Centre hosts the UNESCO Chair on Tackling Bullying in Schools and Cyberspace, held by Professor James O’Higgins Norman. The aim of DCU Anti-Bullying Centre is to contribute to solving the real-world problems of bullying and online safety.
Speaking at the announcement, Minister O’Brien said:
“I am delighted to announce the results of the first funding call under the Ireland Against Racism Fund. This fund is a key element of the National Action Plan against Racism, and the grant awards announced today will assist 24 projects, both local and national, in undertaking important work that will support the objectives of the action plan. I was hugely impressed with the calibre of applications to the fund, and I look forward to seeing the various projects and initiatives bear fruit over the next 12 months and beyond”.
Prof. James O’Higgins Norman, Director of DCU Anti-Bullying Centre said:
“This award from the Government will contribute to the Centre’s ongoing work on bullying and harassment offline and online. Its findings will make a significant impact on DCU’s mission to transform lives and societies.”
