Just as different racial groups in the south have experienced racism in the health and education sectors, so too have minority ethnic people living in the north

Joan Harbinson NI Equality Commission

The organisations have said they are particularly focusing on health and education in their campaign against racism throughout the island.

This week they are to publish a booklet of inter-cultural guidelines for primary schools, launch a consultation guide promoting racial equality in health and distribute a resource pack for post-primary schools.

An anti-racism poster and booklet will also be distributed to youth organisations throughout Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic.

The booklet contains a 21-point plan of practical activities for young people.

The Equality Commission for Northern Ireland has also announced that an International day Against Racism is to be held on Thursday.

'Valuable diversity'

Joan Harbinson from the commission said: "Just as different racial groups in the south have experienced racism in the health and education sectors, so too have minority ethnic people living in the north.

"The activities of this week demonstrate that we want to be part of a wider European strategy to raise awareness of racism and to deal effectively with its impact on all racial groups.

"By promoting racial equality and good relations in schools and youth groups, in hospitals and GP's surgeries, we will get our message across to young people and service providers. As our joint poster says: "The most universal quality is diversity."

She added that the Equality Commission had recently developed anti-racism strategies in partnership with the departments of education and health in Northern Ireland.

Joe MacDonagh from the National Consultative Committee on Racism in the Republic of Ireland said: "The international day against racism gives all of us in Ireland the opportunity to show our solidarity with others across the world in the struggle against racism.

"The day will be particularly significant in Ireland this year, north and south, as preparations begin to develop a national plan against racism."