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International Protection

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 May 2021

Thursday, 27 May 2021

Questions (71)

Christopher O'Sullivan

Question:

71. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the status of the transfer of unaccompanied child migrants to Ireland as refugees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28743/21]

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Written answers

I am happy to confirm that planned relocation of Separated Children Seeking International Protection (SCSIPs) is progressing. Next weekend officials from my Department, Tusla social workers and members of An Garda Siochana are travelling to Greece to meet the 27 separated children seeking to come to Ireland.

Over the past months there has been intensive activity between my Department and Tusla with colleagues in the EU and Athens to make the necessary arrangements.

Covid 19 restrictions, vaccinations for staff travelling and changes at European Union level in the procedures for managing the relocation of separated children contributed to delays in arranging the transfers. Ireland will continue to work on reception of refugees from Greece and other countries.

Tusla has a dedicated social work team for separated children seeking asylum. Over the past 20 years the team has developed expertise through Ireland’s participation in international protection programmes and by receiving into care separated children who arrive unannounced at Irish ports and airports. The service provided to these children is demand-led, and accurately estimating future demand is challenging, particularly as the effects of Brexit are yet to be seen.

In Budget 2021, an additional €5m was secured for Tusla to provide dedicated services to accelerate the intake of these children in Greece to whom we have a commitment. Tusla officials are developing a suite of care options to include expansion of residential care placements, development of specialist foster care placements, Fáilte Care, and provision of additional aftercare supports to free up ‘child in care’ places.

We remain confident that Ireland will fully achieve the existing commitment and the additional funding will ensure such transfers can take place on a consistent and sustainable basis.

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