A new report to be launched today will call for tougher sentences for hate crimes.
Researchers at the University of Limerick carried out the research which could result in the creation of new offences to protect vulnerable communities.
The project surveyed 14 advocacy groups for those with disabilities, ethnic and religious minorities and the LGBT community - which detailed instances of physical and verbal abuse.
The researchers behind the project are now calling on the Government for new offences and longer sentences for assault, harassment and other crimes motivated by hatred or prejudice.
