Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 February 2014
462. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether the document Migration Nation is outdated; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a national integration plan does not exist; and his views on the potential to develop one. [6741/14]
View answer465. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views regarding plans for or progress on the production of a national integration strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6800/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 462 and 465 together.
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to promote policies which integrate minority ethnic groups in Ireland, and which promote social inclusion, equality, diversity and the participation of immigrants in the economic, social, political and cultural life of their communities. A significant level of activity is taking place in pursuit of this commitment.
A number of key Departments and agencies have developed specific strategies to ensure that their services respond to Ireland’s changed demographic in an interculturally sensitive and inclusive manner. The strategies developed include: an Intercultural Health Strategy; an Intercultural Education Strategy; a Cultural and Arts Policy and Strategy; the Garda Síochána Diversity Strategy; and an Action Strategy for Integrated Workplaces. Many local authorities too have developed action plans, often with the assistance of funding provided by the Office for the Promotion of Migrant Integration.
The Office for the Promotion of Migrant Integration, an Office operating under the ambit of my own Department, has a cross-Departmental mandate to develop, lead and co-ordinate migrant integration policy across other Government Departments, agencies and services. The Office is currently preparing proposals with a view to updating and strengthening policies in this field as part of an overall integration strategy geared to present conditions. I will be consulting Government colleagues in the matter in the near future with a view to initiating that process.
