Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 9 Feb 2000

Vol. 514 No. 1

Written Answers. - Asylum Seekers.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

63 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the recent call made by the Association of Asylum Seekers and Refugees in Ireland that asylum seekers should be allowed to participate in FÁS courses; her response in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3500/00]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

I would like to clarify for the Deputy the current position relating to FÁS assistance to asylum seekers. On 26 July 1999 the Government decided to grant the right to seek work to asylum seekers who had been in the country for 12 months or more and who were still awaiting a determination of their application for refugee status. The Government decided that the new arrangement should also apply to those who had sought asylum here up to 26 July 1999 as soon as their application crossed the 12 month threshold. The people concerned must also have been complying with their obligations as asylum seekers.

More recently, in response to the identified needs of this group, the Government decided to allocate IR £0.5 million each year for the years 2000 and 2001 to establish a dedicated unit within FÁS to assist eligible asylum seekers to find employment through placing them in contact with relevant employers. This unit is currently being established. I can assure the Deputy that the ongoing needs of this group remain under review in my Department.