Positive action to deal with hate crime in Wales has been outlined by the Welsh Government Minister in charge of equalities.
Jane Hutt has announced that a framework for action will be created to tackle all forms of hate crime including disability-related harassment, as well as harassment based on race, religion,sexual orientation and against transgender people. It will be underpinned by strong consultation and clear evidence.
The approach will be supported by realistic and deliverable plans which will be deeply rooted in the Welsh Government working closely with their partners.
Minister Jane Hutt said:
“Incidents of hate crime are shocking and unacceptable. I am committed to the Welsh Government taking a strong lead in this area.
“We all have a duty to protect those who are most vulnerable to harassment in society and to ensure that disabled people and those with long term health conditions are able to live a life without fear.
“I think that there is an excellent opportunity under the new Welsh specific equality duties to work closely with public sector organisations to tackle and respond to these particular issues.
“I want to ensure that we live in a society where hate crime is not tolerated, so that people in Wales feel free to live within safe and vibrant communities.”
A commitment to tackling hate crime is made in the Welsh Government’s Programme for Government, and these plans have been previewed in a response to the Communities, Equality and Local Government Committee’s inquiry into disability harassment in Wales.
Ms Hutt has also emphasised that she is committed to building on recent research into hate crime, and will commission work to examine the perpetrators of hate crime and their motives in the very near future.
The Communities, Equalities and Local Government Committee report on Disability Related Harassment in Wales will be discussed in the National Assembly for Wales on Wednesday 22nd February 2012.
