Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 January 2021
546. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will address the issues raised in correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3623/21]
View answerThe Government remains committed to combatting racism and fostering a diverse and inclusive society in Ireland, with its series of equality strategies acting as the main vehicle for change. Since 2017, the Migrant Integration Strategy (MIS) has been the central policy framework adopted by Government to promote the integration of all migrants who are legally in the State. It contains 76 targeted actions which are delivered by Government Departments, local authorities, local communities, the business sector, sporting and arts organisations and NGOs across a number of policy areas relevant to the integration of migrants, including employment; education and social inclusion. It also addresses racism and xenophobia, representing a whole-of-Government approach. While initially due to end in 2020, this strategy has been extended to the end of December 2021 to enable the actions of the Strategy to continue to be implemented while facilitating the preparations for a new strategic policy approach to migrant integration. Issues concerning people of African descent in Ireland and the wider black, Asian and minority ethnic communities in Ireland will be examined as part of this work to develop a robust successor strategy to the MIS.Arising from the recommendations of the mid-term progress report of the Migrant Integration Strategy, an Anti-Racism Committee has been established to help in the fight against racial discrimination in Ireland. The Anti-Racism Committee has a mandate to develop an understanding of the nature and prevalence of racism in Ireland, and to work towards achieving a social consensus on actions required, by State and non-State. It is currently working on a national plan to address racism, including structural racism. My Department is also working with the International Decade for People of African Descent Steering Committee in Ireland to develop a programme of activities to celebrate the United Nation’s International Decade for People of African Descent (IDPAD). This programme will promote the diverse heritage, culture and contribution of people of African descent to Irish communities.
