Ivor Callely
Question:66 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the success of the resettlement of the Kosovar refugee programme; the supports in place for such refugees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22184/00]
Written Answers. - Refugee Programme.
The evacuation programme in 1999 for Kosovar refugees was always perceived as a temporary measure. The refugees were given permission to remain in Ireland for one year.
The Government decided in July 2000 that the Kosovar refugees evacuated last year could stay until June 2001. Those who decided to return before the end of September 2000 would be facilitated in doing so and received a generous financial package of £5,000 for each adult and £2,000 for each dependent child under 18, to help them re-establish themselves in Kosovo.
There was a high uptake of the offer among the refugees and 715 Kosovars returned on a number of organised flights between 18 July and 28 September. I sincerely hope that those who returned will be able to successfully rebuild their lives and those of their families.
Another 137 Kosovars have decided to remain in Ireland until June 2001. Those who wish to extend their leave to remain beyond June 2001 will be able to apply to an ad hoc sub-committee established for this purpose within the Refugee Agency. A report on the circumstances of each family and individual will be prepared for consideration and decision by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
Two reception centres have been retained, in Waterford and in Tralee and each is being managed by two assistant managers on secondment from the health boards. The Refugee Agency has overall management responsibility for the programme and has a designated team of a manager, assistant manager and a resettlement officer.