Michael P. Kitt
Question:93 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the reports of large numbers of emigrants who are homeless; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14633/97]
Written Answers - Homeless Emigrants.
I am aware that some Irish emigrants are homeless. They find themselves in that position either because they leave Ireland inadequately prepared for life in a different environment or because of family or other difficulties of the kind that people everywhere experience.
The relevant statutory and voluntary organisations discourage prospective emigrants from leaving this country if they are not sufficiently well prepared or equipped to adjust to living abroad. The Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs and the emigrant advice information and counselling service have recent leaflets with practical advice for people thinking of going to London or the United States; FÁS, the training and employment authority, recently produced an information pack of comprehensive and country-specific information about how to cope with problems of living and working abroad.
In addition to the assistance available to Irish emigrants from the official social services of the countries in which they live, advice and assistance is also provided to homeless Irish people in Britain, the United States and Australia from many local voluntary Irish organisations whose valuable work is supported by grants from the Irish Government.