Some of Ireland's best known recording artists have joined forces on a new music CD in a bid to raise awareness of the growing problem of racism in Ireland.
The compilation album, which has been compiled by Hot Press in association with the KNOW RACISMprogramme, will feature songs by artists such as Sinead O'Connor, Philip Lynott, Metisse, Christy Moore and Jack L.
Some of the material included has been recorded specifically for the project.
The artists and record companies gave their services free of charge. In the case of new recordings, the artists bore the substantial costs involved themselves.
Launched in October 2001, KNOW RACISMaims to increase awareness of the problem of racism in Ireland and help contribute to create the conditions to build an inclusive and intercultural society.
"Ireland has undergone major changes in the past few years there are currently over 160 different nationalities living here," Mr Joe McDonagh, Chairperson of the steering group, implementing KNOW RACISMsaid at the launch of the CD.
"Our society is now a multi-cultural society and we must accept the responsibilities and challenges that change brings to us. . .
"It would be wrong to allow fear of strangers and intolerance to spoil this traditional spirit and change our attitudes towards the minority ethnic people who live and work among us."
A number of other leading celebrities have already thrown their weight behind KNOW RACISM campaign including Samantha Mumba, Liam Neeson, Kofi Annan, John Rocha, Mick McCarthy, Seamus Heaney and Mary Robinson.
All have written special messages of support for the programme, urging everyone to work together to promote an inclusive and anti-racist society in Ireland.
Upcoming key events for KNOW RACISMinclude the distribution of a mailshot to every home in the country on 'What You Can Do' about racism; the second phase of payments of grants to local community and voluntary groups for anti-racism awareness initiatives; and a special emblem, designed by John Rocha which people will be encouraged to wear to demonstrate their support for the programme.