Student Racism Survey among Irish Students
A recent MORI/USI survey of student opinion on issues related to Racism in Ireland revealed a widespread prejudice against certain ethnic groups.
The survey was carried out on a sample of 500 third-level students at colleges across Ireland. It found that almost 40% of those who expressed an opinion believed that people from minority ethnic groups abused the social welfare system. 23% also believed that minority ethnic groups are more often involved in criminal activity than the general public.
However 41% of those surveyed then admitted that they did not have any friends from minority groups. More positively 94% agreed that it is good for society to be made up of people from different races, religions and cultures.
The study also showed that prejudiced views were not just expressed about non-nationals. 39% said they would find it ‘difficult’ if a sibling married an Irish Traveller, but just 6% would have this problem if the marriage was to a person from abroad.
Bernard Cantillon, the Equality Officer of USI, said that the survey "Shows the lack of integration between minority ethnic groups and the rest of Irish society. On the positive side, students have a clear idea of what needs to be done to promote greater integration. 73% said we must promote the teaching of mutual acceptance and respect in schools and 55% wanted to see the promotion of different lifestyles and cultures in college."
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