In what is being hailed as a "historic day," Ireland has officially recognized Travellers as an indigenous ethnic minority in Ireland. The March 1 announcement brought a standing ovation in the Irish Parliament, and Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Enda Kenny said the status of "distinct ethnic group" meant that Travellers could look forward to a "better future with less negativity." It is believe that about 30,000 people in Ireland, or about 0.6 percent of the population, are members of the Travelling community.