Record 321 workplace discrimination claims in 2006
There were 321 claims of discrimination in the workplace lodged to the Equality Tribunal already this year, a record level according to its latest report.
It also reveals a sharp increase in racist claims at work, which jumped from 53 in the first nine months of 2005 to 93 in the same period in 2006.
The Equality Tribunal's report shows a significant increase in claims of workplace racism since last year.
This is despite recent reports showing a decrease in racist attitudes in Ireland.
However, the numbers of people claiming discrimination at work because of their age fell from 72 to 60.
The numbers of disabled workers lodging claims fell from 56 to 42.
There was a 37% drop in discrimination claims from travellers saying they were refused entry or denied access to services.
In all, the tribunal issued 45 decisions in relation to the claims, upholding almost half and awarding €270,000.
