In the last decade Irish society has visibly changed with the emergence of new immigrant communities of black and ethnic minorities. Argues that Ireland was never immune from the racist ideologies that governed relationships between the 'west and the rest' despite a history of colonial anti-Irish racism. Draws upon a number of academic disciplines, focusing on the relationship between ideological forms of racism and its consequences upon black and ethnic minorities. Sets out an invaluable critique of racism in Irish society. Chapters on nation-building, Ireland's response to the Holocaust, refugees and asylum seekers, the politics of Traveller exclusion and multiculturalism in Ireland examine the mechanics of exclusion resulting from institutional racism within political.