Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 May 2005
226 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will increase financial support for Irish centres in Britain to enable organisations and agencies operating there to meet increased demands for Irish emigrant services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17246/05]
View answerFrontline organisations in Britain that provide critical services to our community there, including Irish centres, are financially supported by the Government through the DÍON fund. Since it was established in 1984, more than €22 million has been distributed from this fund.
In 2004, DÍON grants totalled €4.3 million. This represented a 68% increase on the 2003 figure. This year, €8.273 has been made available for emigrant services, of which I expect some €7 million will go to organisations in Britain. Applications for grants are currently receiving consideration, and I will be announcing the outcome very shortly.
The very significant increase in funding in this area in recent years reflects, in the clearest possible way, the strength of the Government's firm and sustained commitment to our community in Britain.
