Over half of people here support equality laws
54% of NI population agree need for anti-discrimination legislation
A new survey by the Equality Commission shows that over half of people here agree there is a need for equality and anti-discrimination laws in Northern Ireland.
Over two thirds of respondents said equality was as important or more important to them than it was a year ago.
Religion remained the most prevalent concern, with 28% of people saying it was more important to them than any other equality issue.
Other key areas included employment, housing, education and gender bias.
Dr Michael Wardlow, Chief Commissioner of the Equality Commission, said the results show equality issues are becoming more of a concern or the Northern Ireland public:
"It is significant that, although over two thirds of people consider equality as important, only one third think that we have equality for all in Northern Ireland.
"The key areas on which we need to see action and progress cover different aspects of our lives.
"They include issues around employment, housing and education and the fact that many women are still adversely affected by gender bias and inequality in our society," he said.
He added: "While the survey findings are broadly positive, it is clear from the response that challenges remain, for our society and for the Commission.