On Wednesday 9 April 2025, St Stephen’s Green Trust was proud to host a special invite-only event marking 10 years of the Traveller Justice Initiative (TJI), alongside the Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT). The event brought together over 70 attendees from across the justice sector, Traveller organisations, community groups, philanthropic partners, and civil society to reflect on a decade of learning, collaboration, and change.

TJI was established by SSGT in 2014 to address the overrepresentation of Travellers in the criminal justice system – a long-standing issue that had been largely unaddressed in a coordinated or community-led way. Since then, TJI has worked to amplify Traveller voices, build meaningful partnerships with justice agencies, and support policy and practice changes that are more responsive, fair, and inclusive.

The event, held in the Wood Quay Venue, was an opportunity to reflect on that journey – on what has been achieved, what has been learned, the relationships that have been forged, and what still needs to change.

“There is an openness and attitudes have changed – there is an absolute recognition of the disproportionate representation and that we need to do more.” [Stories of change (2025)]

Speakers and Reflections

The afternoon opened with Anna Lee, Chairperson of SSGT, who reflected on the origins of TJI and the unique role of philanthropy in enabling bold, community-led change. Anna emphasised that the early investment by SSGT provided the independent space needed to test new approaches, build relationships, and centre Traveller leadership at every stage.

Anne Costello, Coordinator of TJI since shortly after its inception, gave a powerful reflection on the approach that has made TJI so successful: long-term relationship-building, a focus on Traveller leadership, strategic use of independent funding, and fostering collaboration between state agencies and the Traveller community. Anne also spoke about the importance of shifting the narrative around Travellers in the criminal justice system – from one of exclusion and blame to one that recognises leadership, resilience, and the need for structural change.

Senior representatives from across the criminal justice system shared their reflections on the partnership with TJI. Seamus Beirne (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead, Irish Prison Service), Fíona Ní Chinnéide (Director of Operations [Prisoners and Reintegration], The Probation Service), Damien Hernon (Director, Oberstown Children Detention Campus), and Judge Susan Fay spoke about how TJI’s work has influenced policy, practice, and culture – from the introduction of ethnic identifiers to the expansion of peer support initiatives, and cultural awareness across various stages of the criminal justice system.

The event also featured a panel discussion chaired by Maria Joyce, Coordinator of the National Traveller Women’s Forum and Chair of the TJI Steering Group, with contributions from Anne Marie Sweeney (Peer Outreach Worker), Heather O’Shea (Barnardos), Chris McDonagh (Traveller Mediation Service), all of whom have been central to TJI’s work in recent years. Their stories spoke to the impact of peer-led initiatives, the value of relationship-building, and the continued need for culturally appropriate supports across the justice system.

Stories of Change & Moments of Recognition

Guests also received copies of a new publication, Stories of change, capturing reflections from Travellers, service providers, and stakeholders who have been part of TJI’s journey over the past decade. The report tells the story of the factors that led to TJI’s success and the role of independent funding from SSGT in allowing the programme to innovate and think longer-term. The report is available here, and the summary version is available here.

A special moment in the agenda was the recognition of Anne Costello by Anne Lee. Anne’s leadership and commitment to the Traveller community have shaped the initiative from day one. Anne’s contribution was honoured with a presentation of thanks on behalf of SSGT, as she embarks on a new chapter in IPRT.

In another moment of recognition, Anne Costello closed the event by recognising former TD Éamon Ó Cuív’s fearless dedication to highlighting the overrepresentation of Travellers in the criminal justice system. Anne thanked Éamon for his consistent advocacy for systemic change, even when the issue did not receive widespread attention. Anne presented Éamon with a gift on behalf of TJI and SSGT.

“You need to have spaces outside of the State and the mainstream to bring about change. There are important lessons for philanthropy in Ireland.” [Stories of change (2025)]

Looking Ahead

TJI now begins a new chapter under the stewardship of the Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT), where its work will continue to grow and evolve. (The transition process was formalised as of end March 2025.) The values that have shaped the initiative remain central: leadership from the Traveller community, long-term partnership, and a commitment to justice system change that is led by those most affected.

St Stephen’s Green Trust is deeply proud to have supported this work for the past decade, and we remain committed to supporting change that is community-led, collaborative, and rooted in lived experience. St Stephen’s Green Trust’s outgoing Executive Director, Orla O’Neill, spoke candidly about the positive experience it has been establishing and hosting TJI and the many stakeholders, including statutory bodies, who were supportive from the early stages.

Thank you to all who attended and to everyone who has been part of the TJI journey so far.

In the coming days and weeks, SSGT will be archiving TJI materials on the SSGT website. Going forward, all materials relating to TJI – past and future – will be housed on the IPRT website.

Stories of change can be accessed here.
A summary of Stories of change can be accessed here.

A video capturing insights from key stakeholders and highlights from the event will follow in due course.