Written Answers Nos. 502-521
502. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will consider removing the requirement for crèche operators to have professionally produced accounts; if he will consider increasing funding to the sector, particularly to small independent operators, in order to keep pace with the rising cost of living; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52144/23]
View answerCore Funding, which commenced in September 2022, is a grant to Early Learning and Care (ELC) and/or School Age Childcare (SAC) providers towards their operating costs. Its primary purpose is to improve pay and conditions in the sector as a whole and improve affordability for parents as well as ensuring a stable income to providers.
All Partner Services that had an active Core Funding Contract during the 2022/2023 Programme Year must provide validated Financial Returns as per their Core Funding Partner Service Funding Agreement.
Core Funding payments to providers must run on a programme year, September-August, in line with the school year, the operation of the ELC and SAC sector, and the payments made to providers under the other DCEDIY schemes. Therefore, the financial returns cover the period from 1st September 2022 to 31st August 2023 and must be submitted by an accountant from a registered practice or a registered professional body (ACA, ACAA, CPA, and CIMA), on behalf of each Partner Service.
My Department is not requesting audited accounts, Partner Services are instead being asked to provide financial information mapped to the Core Funding Chart of Accounts, which has been reviewed, signed off and submitted by an accountant.
Services that already use accountancy packages should be able map to the Core Funding nominal codes from the Chart of Accounts. However, if a service does not use an accountancy package, a series of resources have been designed to assist services with meeting this requirement.
My officials have, in recent weeks, engaged with the Early Learning and Childcare Stakeholder Forum (ELCSF) on issues raised by providers on the financial reporting requirements under Core Funding.
To date, three meetings have taken place on 7th , 20th November and on 27th November involving members and nominees from Childhood Services Ireland (CSI), Childminding Ireland, Early Childhood Ireland (ECI), the Association of Childhood Professionals Ireland (ACPI), the Federation of Early Childhood Providers (FECP), the National Childhood Network (NCN), the National Community Childcare Forum and Seas Suas as well as representatives from City/County Childcare Committees (CCC) and Pobal.
Arising from these meetings, official has developed and discussed proposals to significantly simplify and streamline the reporting requirements under Core Funding and to support providers in preparing and submitting these returns. They are now in the process of finalising updated financial reporting requirements and templates, which will be shared with members and nominees of the ELCSF in advance of publication. Once finalised, updated financial reporting requirements will be shared with providers and all communications, including templates and training material will be updated.
My Department acknowledges that there is additional administration for providers with the introduction of new schemes such as the NCS and Core Funding, and has allocated €32.13 million for administration under Core Funding in year two, and €35.34m for the third year of the scheme. In addition, a number of targeted supports are being considered by my Department to enable Core Funding Partner Services to comply with the financial reporting requirement.
With regard to increased funding for the sector, as announced in Budget 2024, the allocation for Core Funding in Year 3 will be increased by 15% - rising from €287m to €331m.
The additional funding being made for Year 3 of Core Funding, €9.27m will allow for 3% increases in capacity in the sector in year three of the scheme, driven both by new services joining the sector and existing services offering more places and/or longer hours to families. There will also be increases to the allocations for administration (of €3.21m) and non-staff overheads (of €10.07m) to ensure that the scheme is adequately responding to cost pressures. The precise allocation of the remaining €21.49m will be determined by data emerging from Year 2 of the scheme as well as the Financial Returns. It is intended that, in conjunction with the targeted measures introduced in September 2023, these measures will improve the financial standing of services receiving the lowest incomes and will pavethe way for further negotiations to improve staff pay and conditions.
In any instances where a service is experiencing financial difficulty, they can reach out to their local City/County Childcare Committee and avail of Case Management Supports. This can include operational supports as well as financial supports through Sustainability Funding if deemed appropriate.
503. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the total costs incurred by his Department arising from the placing of advertisements with the national broadcaster, RTÉ, in any format, for each of the years 2016 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52158/23]
View answerThe amount spent on advertising with RTÉ from 2016 to date, by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, is set out in the accompanying table below. The bulk of this expenditure relates to public information campaigns. All expenditure is placed through a media buying company procured through an Office of Government Procurement framework.
|
- |
RTE Advertising Expenditure |
|
2016 |
Nil |
|
2017 |
Nil |
|
2018 |
Nil |
|
2019 |
€29,128 |
|
2020 |
Nil |
|
2021 |
€12,776 |
|
2022 |
€48,388 |
|
22 Nov, 2023 |
€54,655 |
504. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if his Department, or any body under the aegis of his Department, has facilitated in-person or remote briefings on any issue by organisations (details supplied) from 2020 to date; if so, the topic discussed; the fees paid to the organisations for these briefings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52185/23]
View answerI am informed that neither my Department nor any of its aegis bodies have facilitated any in-person or remote briefings with either of the organisation referred to.
505. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth further to Parliamentary Question No. 843 of 20 September 2023, if he will provide an update on the engagements he has had with a charity (details supplied) in relation to its funding situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52206/23]
View answerCARI offers an important and vital service to Children who have experienced sexual abuse , and the support offered by the service to the parents of those children . The Minister, and the Department understand the vital role CARI play in providing therapy to those who have experienced sexual abuse and it is acknowledged how vital this service is for children and their families through an extremely distressing and difficult time .
CARI highlighted the issue of a financial deficit in August 2023 where it was expressed to Tusla, the Child and Family Agency and the Department that CARI would need €243,000 until the end of 2023. Tusla and the Department have been actively engaging with CARI, and additional funding was provided by Tusla in October to address the projected financial deficit by CARI at that time. The conditional agreement between Tusla and CARI was based upon CARI providing a detailed financial governance to Tusla to ensure on going core funding for 2024.
The CEO and Senior Management of Tusla are engaging with CARI actively to reach a solution. The key elements of the financial deficit for CARI have been identified by the Department. There are several key drivers which have led to cost increases including the using up of financial reserves built up over time to supplement funding shortfalls such as; an increase in running costs, decreased income from funding and under charging for the full cost of therapy.
As a Department the promotion of child welfare is the paramount concern. The initial amount required to ensure operations by CARI could function until end of year was outlined to Tusla in August 2023 and a plan was put in place on the 8th of November. This is an ongoing development that requires both Tusla and CARI to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. However, CARI's financial deficit has changed significantly from the original figure outlined to Tusla in August 2023 and upon which significant and additional once off financial funding was provided.
The Department officials are continuing to liaise with Tusla in this regard and the situation requires close review by Tusla regarding any future issues in this regard. The Department welcomes the continued communication between Tusla and CARI.
CARI offers an important and vital service to Children who have experienced sexual abuse , and the support offered by the service to the parents of those children . The Minister, and the Department understand the vital role CARI play in providing therapy to those who have experienced sexual abuse and it is acknowledged how vital this service is for children and their families through an extremely distressing and difficult time .
CARI highlighted the issue of a financial deficit in August 2023 where it was expressed to Tusla, the Child and Family Agency and the Department that CARI would need €243,000 until the end of 2023. Tusla and the Department have been actively engaging with CARI, and additional funding was provided by Tusla in October to address the projected financial deficit by CARI at that time. The conditional agreement between Tusla and CARI was based upon CARI providing a detailed financial governance to Tusla to ensure on going core funding for 2024.
The CEO and Senior Management of Tusla are engaging with CARI actively to reach a solution. The key elements of the financial deficit for CARI have been identified by the Department. There are several key drivers which have led to cost increases including the using up of financial reserves built up over time to supplement funding shortfalls such as; an increase in running costs, decreased income from funding and under charging for the full cost of therapy.
As a Department the promotion of child welfare is the paramount concern. The initial amount required to ensure operations by CARI could function until end of year was outlined to Tusla in August 2023 and a plan was put in place on the 8th of November. This is an ongoing development that requires both Tusla and CARI to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. However, CARI's financial deficit has changed significantly from the original figure outlined to Tusla in August 2023 and upon which significant and additional once off financial funding was provided.
The Department officials are continuing to liaise with Tusla in this regard and the situation requires close review by Tusla regarding any future issues in this regard. The Department welcomes the continued communication between Tusla and CARI.
506. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he is aware that his Department is requiring early year service providers who are receiving core funding to submit accounts for their facilities in a format which is not in accordance with the Revenue Commissioners (details supplied); if he will rectify this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52260/23]
View answerCore Funding, which commenced in September 2022, is a grant to Early Learning and Care (ELC) and/or School Age Childcare (SAC) providers towards their operating costs. Its primary purpose is to improve pay and conditions in the sector as a whole and improve affordability for parents as well as ensuring a stable income to providers.
All Partner Services that had an active Core Funding Contract during the 2022/2023 Programme Year must provide validated Financial Returns as per their Core Funding Partner Service Funding Agreement.
Core Funding payments to providers must run on a programme year, September-August, in line with the school year, the operation of the ELC and SAC sector, and the payments made to providers under the other DCEDIY schemes. Therefore, the financial returns cover the period from 1st September 2022 to 31st August 2023 and must be submitted by an accountant from a registered practice or a registered professional body (ACA, ACAA, CPA, and CIMA), on behalf of each Partner Service.
My Department is not requesting audited accounts, Partner Services are instead being asked to provide financial information mapped to the Core Funding Chart of Accounts, which has been reviewed, signed off and submitted by an accountant.
Services that already use accountancy packages should be able map to the Core Funding nominal codes from the Chart of Accounts. However, if a service does not use an accountancy package, a series of resources have been designed to assist services with meeting this requirement.
My officials have, in recent weeks, engaged with the Early Learning and Childcare Stakeholder Forum (ELCSF) on issues raised by providers on the financial reporting requirements under Core Funding.
To date, three meetings have taken place on 7th , 20th November and on 27th November involving members and nominees from Childhood Services Ireland (CSI), Childminding Ireland, Early Childhood Ireland (ECI), the Association of Childhood Professionals Ireland (ACPI), the Federation of Early Childhood Providers (FECP), the National Childhood Network (NCN), the National Community Childcare Forum and Seas Suas as well as representatives from City/County Childcare Committees (CCC) and Pobal.
Arising from these meetings, officials have developed and discussed proposals to significantly simplify and streamline the reporting requirements under Core Funding and to support providers in preparing and submitting these returns. They are now in the process of finalising updated financial reporting requirements and templates, which will be shared with members and nominees of the ELCSF in advance of publication. Once finalised, updated financial reporting requirements will be shared with providers and all communications, including templates and training material will be updated.
My Department acknowledges that there is additional administration for providers with the introduction of new schemes such as the NCS and Core Funding, and has allocated €32.13 million for administration under Core Funding in year two, and €35.34m for the third year of the scheme. In addition, a number of targeted supports are being considered by my Department to enable Core Funding Partner Services to comply with the financial reporting requirement.
In any instances where a service is experiencing financial difficulty, they can reach out to their local City/County Childcare Committee and avail of Case Management Supports. This can include operational supports as well as financial supports through Sustainability Funding if deemed appropriate.
507. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if there are plans to use a property (details supplied) for the purpose of emergency accommodation for people seeking international protection; if so, the public engagement and consultation that has been conducted in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52273/23]
View answerMy Department is involved in negotiations with a range of accommodation providers across Ireland, and has received an offer of accommodation from the provider to which the Deputy refers. This offer is being evaluated to determine if it meets my Department's requirements to support beneficiaries of temporary protection from Ukraine.
Due to the commercial sensitivities involved, it is not possible to provide information on the negotiations with any individual provider.
The Government is aware of public concerns regarding the arrival of those seeking protection in Ireland. A Community Engagement Team has been set up to engage directly with elected representatives, relevant Local Authorities, Local Development Companies, and other entities and/or individuals where relevant and appropriate. The purpose of the team is to improve the flow of information regarding arrivals into areas and to help equip local communities with pertinent information required to help with the welcome and integration process for new arrivals. Over the coming months new processes for engagement and communication through information campaigns, publicity, and facilities for asking questions will be developed.
508. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to provide details of funding streams (details supplied); when each fund opens annually; the number of applications per individual fund; the value of the grants applied for each fund; the value of the individual grants awarded per fund, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52304/23]
View answerMy Department administers a number of funding streams addressing integration on the basis of annual or multi-annual open calls for funding.
The National Integration Fund (NIF) has the goal of supporting communities across Ireland to play a greater role in promoting the integration of migrants, and is open to organisations operating at regional and national level. Approximately €750,000 is committed per year, subject to the availability of funds. The minimum annual grant amount that can be applied for is €25,000, and grants may range up to €200,000 over the lifetime of the project. Applications have closed for the 2023 version of the fund and are currently being assessed.
|
Size of grant available |
€25,000 to €200,000 |
|
No. of applicants |
123 |
|
Total funding requested |
€17,369,715.16 |
|
Total funding awarded |
TBC (assessment of applications ongoing at present) |
The Communities Integration Fund (CIF) has been in place since 2017 and arises from Action 51 of the Migrant Integration Strategy. Grant funding of €1,000 to €5,000 is made available for local integration initiatives. Since its inception, the CIF has supported over 820 projects, with grant funding totalling €3.82 million. CIF 2023 awarded grant payments to 111 organisations, with a total value of €509,415.
|
Size of grant available |
€1,000 to €5,000 |
|
No. of applicants |
246 |
|
No. of successful applicants |
111 |
|
Total funding requested |
€1,092,281.89 |
|
Total funding awarded |
€509,415 |
Successful CIF projects 2023:
|
Organisation |
Amount awarded |
|
ACET Ireland |
€5,000.00 |
|
Adamstown Community Summer Camp |
€5,000.00 |
|
Africa Irish Society of Wicklow |
€5,000.00 |
|
African Mothers & Youth Association (AMYA) |
€4,500.00 |
|
Amal Women Association |
€5,000.00 |
|
AMBI - Association of Brazilian Families in Ireland |
€4,900.00 |
|
Aremoja Women's Group |
€3,870.00 |
|
Association of Nigerians Community Clare |
€5,000.00 |
|
ASSOCIATION OF OGUN STATE INDIGENES IN IRELAND |
€4,000.00 |
|
Balbriggan Integration Forum |
€1,000.00 |
|
Baldoyle Family Resource Service CLG |
€5,000.00 |
|
Ballaghaderreen Community Games |
€5,000.00 |
|
Ballinamuck Community Enterprise |
€5,000.00 |
|
Ballyhaunis Community Council CLG |
€1,500.00 |
|
Ballyhaunis Family Resource Centre |
€3,000.00 |
|
Barrack Hill Town Park Steering Committee |
€5,000.00 |
|
BGM Community Council Ltd. |
€5,000.00 |
|
Bridgeways Family Resource Centre |
€5,000.00 |
|
CDYS Mallow |
€5,000.00 |
|
Comhlamh |
€2,200.00 |
|
Cork Migrant Centre, Nano Nagle Place |
€5,000.00 |
|
Cultur Celebrating Diversity |
€5,000.00 |
|
Cultúr Migrant Centre |
€5,000.00 |
|
Cultúr Migrants Centre |
€5,000.00 |
|
CULTURE CONNECT CLG (dundalk) |
€5,000.00 |
|
Culture Connect CLG (drogheda) |
€5,000.00 |
|
Cultures Meet Ireland |
€5,000.00 |
|
CURVE - Committee of Ukrainian Residents and Volunteers in Esker |
€5,000.00 |
|
Diversity Sligo |
€5,000.00 |
|
Dóchas Midwest Autism Support |
€4,040.00 |
|
Donabate Portrane Community Centre CLG |
€3,000.00 |
|
Downstrands Family Resource Centre |
€5,000.00 |
|
Drumshanbo Sports Hub |
€3,600.00 |
|
Dublin City University |
€5,000.00 |
|
Dublin Northwest Partnership |
€4,800.00 |
|
East Coast FRC |
€5,000.00 |
|
East Wall Here For All |
€5,000.00 |
|
EDI Centre |
€4,400.00 |
|
Empower |
€5,000.00 |
|
Equal Chances Polish School CLG |
€5,000.00 |
|
Ethnic Minority Hub |
€5,000.00 |
|
Fenagh Development Company LTD |
€3,860.00 |
|
Finglas Youth Resource Centre |
€5,000.00 |
|
Foróige |
€2,220.00 |
|
Foróige, Roscommon Youth Service UBU |
€5,000.00 |
|
FORUM Connemara CLG |
€5,000.00 |
|
FORUM Connemara CLG |
€4,679.50 |
|
GARRYOWEN CDP |
€4,910.00 |
|
Gorey Youth Needs Group |
€5,000.00 |
|
Hands 4 Unity CLG |
€5,000.00 |
|
Helium Arts |
€5,000.00 |
|
Hill Street Family Resource Centre |
€5,000.00 |
|
IRD Duhallow Clg |
€5,000.00 |
|
Irish Institute of Music and Song |
€5,000.00 |
|
Irish Refugee Council |
€5,000.00 |
|
Irish Refugee Council |
€5,000.00 |
|
Kilfinane Community Council |
€4,250.00 |
|
Kilkenny No Name Club |
€4,655.00 |
|
Killaloe Ballina Tennis Club |
€2,840.00 |
|
Killorglin Family Resource Centre CLG |
€5,000.00 |
|
Labras - Laois Brazilian Support Association |
€2,740.00 |
|
Laois Integration Network |
€5,000.00 |
|
Laois Partnership Company |
€5,000.00 |
|
Leitrim International Community Group |
€5,000.00 |
|
Leitrim Ladies LGFA |
€5,000.00 |
|
Lifestyle Development Group CLG |
€5,000.00 |
|
Lismore AFC CLG |
€5,000.00 |
|
Longford Women's Link CLG |
€5,000.00 |
|
Lough Ree Lanesborough Angling Hub |
€5,000.00 |
|
Lus na Gréine Family Resource Centre CLg |
€5,000.00 |
|
Midlands Polish Community CLG |
€5,000.00 |
|
Mullingar Lithuanian Community |
€5,000.00 |
|
Muslim Sisters Of Eire |
€5,000.00 |
|
Muslim Sisters Of Eire |
€4,300.00 |
|
Muslim Sisters Of Eire |
€4,050.00 |
|
North Leitrim Intercultural Forum (NLIF) |
€5,000.00 |
|
North West Clare Family Resource Centre CLG |
€5,000.00 |
|
Novas (Arlington Novas Ireland Limited) |
€3,000.00 |
|
Oasis Housing Association CLG (Oasis House Women's Refuge) |
€4,500.00 |
|
Ongar Community Centre |
€5,000.00 |
|
ReWrite Arts Limited |
€5,000.00 |
|
Roscommon Women's Network (RWN) |
€5,000.00 |
|
Ruhama |
€5,000.00 |
|
Saoirse Housing Association CLG |
€5,000.00 |
|
Schull Community Care Organization Ltd |
€3,670.00 |
|
Scoil Mhainchin, Ennistymon National School |
€1,520.00 |
|
Silver Arch Family Resource Centre |
€5,000.00 |
|
Siul Eile |
€5,000.00 |
|
Sligo Family Resource Centre |
€5,000.00 |
|
Social Space Ireland |
€5,000.00 |
|
South Roscommon Family Resource Centre |
€4,967.50 |
|
Southside Partnership |
€5,000.00 |
|
St Brigids Family Resource Centre |
€2,020.00 |
|
St Catherine's Community Services Centre |
€5,000.00 |
|
ST PAULS COMMUNITY COLLEGE |
€5,000.00 |
|
Stanhope Street Primary school |
€4,980.00 |
|
Street Feast CLG |
€5,000.00 |
|
Tacú Ballinrobe Family Resource Centre CLG |
€4,750.00 |
|
Tattie Hoaker Community Farm |
€4,590.00 |
|
Team Zimbabwe Ireland |
€4,000.00 |
|
The Bohemian Football Club Company Limited By Guarantee |
€5,000.00 |
|
THE BOLD WOMAN ASSOCIATION |
€5,000.00 |
|
The City Farm and Community Gardens Ballymun |
€4,790.00 |
|
The Haven Hub CLG |
€5,000.00 |
|
The Peoples Market |
€5,000.00 |
|
The Walls Project CLG |
€4,720.00 |
|
Traveller Health Care Project (Longford Community Resources clg) |
€5,000.00 |
|
Vision Community Support Services (VCSS) |
€5,000.00 |
|
Waterford Immigration Network (WIN) |
€4,913.00 |
|
WCI Wexford |
€3,680.00 |
|
WEXFORD TOWN FRIENDS OF UKRAINE (WTFoU) |
€5,000.00 |
My department launched the Ireland Against Racism Fund (IARF) in May 2023. In its first year, the fund has made €1.3 million available to applicant groups operating at national, regional and local level. IARF has the overall objective of providing funding for national and regional projects, as well as local initiatives, that aim to combat racism and foster racial equality and community cohesion. The results of the 2023 funding call were issued in September. A combined total of 24 national & regional projects were successful.
|
Size of grant available |
Scheme A - €50,000 to €100,000 Scheme B - €5,000 to €10,000 |
|
No. of applicants |
102 |
|
No. of successful applicants |
24 |
|
Total funding requested |
€3,941,177.50 |
|
Total funding awarded |
€1,294,291 |
Successful IARF Scheme A projects 2023:
|
Organisation Name: |
Project Name: |
Amount Awarded: |
|
South Presentation Centre CLG |
Ubuntu (South African word for 'I am because we are') Project |
€99,000.00 |
|
Bohemian Football Club CLG |
Football Unites Us All |
€99,520.00 |
|
Foróige |
The Lead Project |
€73,000.00 |
|
Sport Against Racism (Ireland) CLG |
Sport for Inclusion |
€100,000.00 |
|
AkiDwA |
Employment, Empowered (The Em 'n' Em Project) |
€94,000.00 |
|
Doras Luimni CLG |
Victims of Racism Support Service |
€93,249.00 |
|
Dublin City University Educational Trust |
DCU Anti-Bullying Centre: Understanding and preventing online racism in Ireland - a mixed methods study |
€100,000.00 |
|
Gorm Media DAC |
The Wideshot Programme |
€80,025.00 |
|
Immigrant Council of Ireland |
Show Racism the Red Card |
€97,886.52 |
|
Irish Congress of Trade Unions |
Stronger Together: Organising for active inclusive and anti-racist workplaces and Trade Unions |
€99,834.00 |
|
Migrant Information Centre Ltd |
Promoting equality for migrants in the employment permit system |
€68,221.00 |
|
National Youth Council of Ireland |
Empowering Young People and Challenging Racism through Targeted and Mainstream Inclusion in Youth Work |
€88,563.00 |
|
The Irish Traveller Movement |
The Yellow Flag Programme |
€98,062.75 |
Successful IARF Scheme B projects 2023:
|
Organisation Name: |
Project Name: |
Amount Awarded: |
|
Dublin City University, Widening Participation |
Political Education & Anti-Racism Videos |
€10,000.00 |
|
NWICDP CLG |
Let’s Gather |
€10,000.00 |
|
Saoirse Housing Association CLG |
Liberty - Inclusion - Voice - Empowerment (LIVE) |
€10,000.00 |
|
Serve the City Ireland CLG |
Connecting Communities |
€7,590.00 |
|
Social Space Ireland |
Our Stories, Our Voices: A Youth Media Project by SSI |
€10,000.00 |
|
The Mendicity Institution |
Training for Employment for International Protection Applicants |
€7,840.00 |
|
Galway Traveller Movement |
Galway Communities Against Racism and Discrimination - Collective Action For Change |
€10,000.00 |
|
Portlaoise Educate Together NS |
Being Together - A shared journey to racial equality in our school! Let's stand up together against racism! |
€7,500.00 |
|
Ethnic Minority hub |
One Community |
€10,000.00 |
|
Longford Africans Network |
Culture Champions Training & Development Program |
€10,000.00 |
|
Kinaffe NS |
Inclusion - In the heart of our school and community |
€10,000.00 |
The International Protection Integration Fund (IPIF) is intended to support communities across Ireland so that they can play a greater role in promoting the integration of International Protection applicants. Annually, a minimum total of €500,000 is made available to community-based organisations to carry out integration projects at a national, provincial or local level. Grants ranging from €5,000 to €20,000 are made available to successful organisations. This year, 71 projects have been awarded €1,220,776 in funding. Organisations eligible to apply include local community groups, charities, faith-based groups, schools and cultural organisations.
|
Size of grant available |
€5,000 to €20,000 |
|
No. of applicants |
165 |
|
No. of successful applicants |
71 |
|
Total funding requested |
€2,649,213.10 |
|
Total funding awarded |
€1,220,776 |
Successful IPIF projects 2023:
|
Organisation |
Amount awarded |
|
ACET Ireland |
€10,250.00 |
|
ADAPT Domestic Abuse Services |
€6,040.00 |
|
AdVIC |
€16,000.00 |
|
Africa Solidarity Centre CLG |
€20,000.00 |
|
Ait na nDaoine Cuideachta Faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta |
€15,186.00 |
|
Ait na nDaoine Cuideachta Faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta |
€15,186.00 |
|
Ait na nDaoine Cuideachta Faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta |
€19,924.00 |
|
Amber Womens Refuge CLG |
€20,000.00 |
|
Basketball Ireland |
€20,000.00 |
|
Bray Area Partnership |
€12,000.00 |
|
Cairde |
€19,960.00 |
|
Clare Immigrant Support Centre |
€20,000.00 |
|
County Kilkenny LEADER Partnership CLG |
€20,000.00 |
|
Croi na Gaillimhe a Resource Centre of St Vincent de Paul |
€5,000.00 |
|
Cultur Migrants Centre |
€20,000.00 |
|
Culture Connect CLG |
€20,000.00 |
|
Depaul Ireland |
€20,000.00 |
|
Development Perspectives |
€18,680.00 |
|
Diversity Sligo |
€6,900.00 |
|
Donegal Intercultural Platform clg |
€20,000.00 |
|
Donegal Youth Service |
€19,044.00 |
|
Doras |
€19,480.00 |
|
Dublin City University |
€20,000.00 |
|
Dublin Northwest Partnership |
€20,000.00 |
|
Early Learning Initiative, National College of Ireland |
€20,000.00 |
|
Empower Local Development CLG |
€20,000.00 |
|
Galway City Partnership |
€16,000.00 |
|
GARRYOWEN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECT CLG |
€19,949.00 |
|
IRD Duhallow Clg |
€20,000.00 |
|
Irish Refugee Council |
€20,000.00 |
|
Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Ireland |
€20,000.00 |
|
LGBT Ireland |
€20,000.00 |
|
Life FM Radio |
€20,000.00 |
|
Lifford Celtic FC |
€8,382.50 |
|
Lifford Clonleigh resource Centre |
€16,400.00 |
|
Limerick Youth Service |
€20,000.00 |
|
Lismore for All |
€9,600.00 |
|
LUS NA GRÉINE FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE CLG |
€12,000.00 |
|
Macroom Family Resource Centre |
€20,000.00 |
|
Merchants Quay Ireland |
€19,998.00 |
|
Midwest Migrant Community Network (MMCN) |
€20,000.00 |
|
Mother Tongues |
€20,000.00 |
|
Muslim Sisters Of Eire |
€18,000.00 |
|
MyMind CLG |
€20,000.00 |
|
National Youth Council of Ireland |
€19,838.00 |
|
New Horizon - Athlone Refugee & Asylum Seeker Support Group |
€20,000.00 |
|
NEWKD |
€20,000.00 |
|
Northside Family Resource Centre CLG |
€20,000.00 |
|
Northside Partnership |
€19,840.00 |
|
Outhouse Limited |
€19,860.00 |
|
Places of Sanctuary Ireland |
€20,000.00 |
|
Riverchapel Community Complex |
€5,320.00 |
|
Serve the City Ireland CLG |
€13,900.00 |
|
Sligo Family Resoruce Centre |
€20,000.00 |
|
SOPHIA COUNSELLING CENTRE |
€12,000.00 |
|
Spirasi |
€17,213.00 |
|
St. Canices Community Action |
€16,400.00 |
|
Teach Na nDaoine Family Resource Centre |
€19,500.00 |
|
Termonfeckin Welcomes Group |
€10,000.00 |
|
The Ark |
€20,000.00 |
|
The Bike Hub |
€20,000.00 |
|
The Exchange Inishowen |
€9,400.00 |
|
The Kildare Local Area Employment Service |
€18,850.00 |
|
The Sanctuary Runners CLG |
€20,000.00 |
|
The SCOOP Foundation |
€15,260.00 |
|
Third Age |
€20,000.00 |
|
Twilight Community Group |
€17,500.00 |
|
Waterford Area Partnership |
€6,405.00 |
|
Waterford Integration Services |
€15,735.00 |
|
Work Equal |
€19,775.00 |
Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) : Funds Administration Unit of DCEDIY is the Managing Authority of the AMIF Programme in Ireland, for the 2021-2027 National Programme and 2014-2020 National Programme. Under Ireland’s national programmes, it is intended to provide a range of supports for International Protection applicants, programme refugees, Beneficiaries Of Temporary Protection and other third country nationals arriving in Ireland, ranging from information and assistance with basic needs through to specialist supports in areas such as medical/psychosocial and legal assistance; to delegate and oversee activities via Direct Awards to specialised bodies; and to fund the management of returns of third country nationals to their country of origin, where appropriate.
Table 1 “Projects awarded funding under 2022 AMIF Closed Call for Proposals” sets out the grants awarded under the 2022 AMIF Closed Call for Proposals. These projects are currently active, and this Call for Proposals is summarised below:
AMIF 2022 Call for Proposals:
|
Size of grant available |
No minimum/maximum |
|
No. of applicants |
14 |
|
No. of successful applicants |
14 |
|
Total funding requested |
€2.797m |
|
Total funding awarded |
€2.797m |
(€2.797m funding made up of €2.098m AMIF Funding, €0.7m National Funding)
Table 1: Projects awarded funding under 2022 AMIF Closed Call for Proposals
|
(Lead) Applicant Name |
Location/Area |
Grant Amount (€) |
|
NASC |
Cork, Kerry, Waterford |
€ 117,690.55 |
|
Crosscare |
Dublin & Surrounds |
€ 197,033.00 |
|
Irish Traveller Movement |
Nationwide |
€ 71,791.00 |
|
Spirasi |
Nationwide |
€ 768,316.00 |
|
Marino Institute of Education |
Nationwide |
€ 113,808.06 |
|
KASI |
Co. Kerry |
€ 190,519.72 |
|
Cultur Migrant Centre |
Meath & Louth |
€ 129,098.00 |
|
Co. Kildare Leader Partnership |
Co.Kildare |
€ 165,925.00 |
|
South West Mayo Dev Co. |
Co. Mayo |
€ 135,531.00 |
|
Clare Immigrant Support Centre |
Co. Clare |
€ 315,330.00 |
|
Immigrant Council of Ireland |
National |
€ 109,827.00 |
|
Waterford Area Partnership |
Co. Waterford, then nationwide |
€ 163,015.00 |
|
North, East, West Kerry Developments |
North, East, West Kerry |
€ 80,424.07 |
|
Galway City Partnership |
Co. Galway |
€ 239,666.00 |
Under Ireland’s AMIF 2021-2027 national programme, no spend has been incurred as of yet. However, on 20th of October 2023, my Department launched an Open Call for Proposals under this national programme in the amount of €10m, to fund projects providing Reception and Integration supports to third country nationals for a four-year period. The closing date for applicants is 12:00 noon on Friday 1st December 2023.
Funds Administration Unit also manages the Integration and Employment of Migrants stream of the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) EIST 2021-2027 Programme. This Activity is aimed at legally resident migrants who are experiencing barriers to participation and employment because of language difficulties, lack of training or social exclusion. The Activity proposes to increase the levels of employability of the participants. The specific categories of persons targeted by this Activity are as follows:
• EEA Nationals who are resident in Ireland
• Third-Country Nationals (TCN) with permission to enter employment in Ireland, including Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection.
In 2022, Funds Administration Unit launched an Open Call for Proposals under the ESF+ EIST 2021-2027 Programme, where 7 projects were approved total funding of €2.7m for a three-year period:
|
Size of grant available |
Minimum €200,000, No maximum |
|
No. of applicants |
21 |
|
No. of successful applicants |
7 |
|
Total funding requested |
€16.7m |
|
Total funding awarded |
€2.7m |
|
Organisation |
Area |
Amount€ |
|
Doras |
Nationwide |
€ 261,104.24 |
|
Network Personnel |
Counties Monaghan & Cavan |
€ 272,242.73 |
|
Cultur Celebrating Diversity |
Meath, Louth, Cavan, Monaghan |
€ 450,000.00 |
|
People 1st |
Co. Donegal |
€ 402,148.78 |
|
Pathways to Progress |
National |
€ 443,045.02 |
|
Waterford Area Partnership |
Waterford & South East Region |
€ 248,430.99 |
|
Business in the Community |
National |
€ 623,028.24 |
509. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to provide details in tabular form of Ireland's potential share in total of the asylum, migration and integration fund; how much has been awarded to date under the fund; if matching funding is required by the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52305/23]
View answerThe financial envelope for the 2021-2027 Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) for EU member states is €9.88 billion. Of this amount, €3.61 billion has been retained by the EU as a ‘Thematic Facility’. The thematic facility is intended to complement funding made available to member states national programmes, with a focus on actions with EU added value in a diverse number of policy areas, such as international protection, legal migration and integration. It will also be used to support, for example, resettlement and humanitarian admission programmes and to provide emergency assistance to member states. Ireland has been allocated €11.11 million from the thematic facility to support resettlement and humanitarian admission programmes, with further funding likely to become available in future years.
The balance, €6.27 billion, has been allocated to member states to implement their approved national programmes. Ireland’s allocation from this balance is €38.66 million. Under Ireland’s national programme, it is estimated that National Exchequer co-funding will amount to €6.2 million over the full programme period.
No grant agreements have been signed as of yet under the new national programme. However, in October 2023, my Department launched an Open Call for Proposals under the national programme in the amount of €10 million, to fund projects providing Reception and Integration supports to third country nationals for a four-year period. The closing date for applicants is 12:00 noon on 1 December.
|
- |
Total EU funding |
of which National Programme Allocation |
of which Thematic Facility allocation |
|
EU AMIF budget |
9.882bn |
6.270bn |
3.612bn |
|
Ireland AMIF budget |
49.77m |
38.66m |
11.11m |
510. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to provide details as to whether the asylum, migration and integration fund can be used to fund the return of failed international protection applicants to countries other than those on the safe countries list; if so, whether the list has to be an official EU safe country list; if not, if Ireland can compile its own safe country list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52306/23]
View answerThe Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) aims to boost national capacities and improve procedures for migration management, as well as to enhance solidarity and responsibility sharing between EU Member States. The AMIF 2021-2027 Programme, at both EU and national levels, is comprised of four Specific Objectives*, which support the interventions as identified under Article 16(12) of the AMIF Regulation 2021/1147. Each activity in Ireland’s national programme is programmed under a particular specific objective (SO), with actions listed under Specific Objective 3 contributing to countering irregular migration; enhancing effective, safe and dignified return and readmission; and promoting and contributing to effective initial reintegration in third countries. The AMIF fund may be used for return activities.
*The four SOs are:
(1) strengthening and developing all aspects of the Common European Asylum System, including its external dimension;
(2) strengthening and developing legal migration to the Member States in accordance with their economic and social needs, and promoting and contributing to the effective integration and social inclusion of third-country nationals;
(3) contributing to countering irregular migration, enhancing effective, safe and dignified return and readmission, and promoting and contributing to effective initial reintegration in third countries;
(4) enhancing solidarity and fair sharing of responsibility between the Member States, in particular as regards those most affected by migration and asylum challenges, including through practical cooperation.
The issues raised by the Deputy with regard to deportations and the designation of safe countries for the purposes of international protection applications is a matter for the Department of Justice. The Deputy may wish to put a separate question to that Department on the matter.
511. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to provide details of the amount in the Ireland for Ukraine fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52307/23]
View answerThis is a matter for my Cabinet colleague, the Minister for Rural and Community Development.
512. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to provide details of how the Ireland for Ukraine Fund compares to the international protection integration fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52308/23]
View answerThe purpose of the International Protection Integration Fund (IPIF) is to support communities across Ireland so they can play a greater role in promoting the integration of International Protection applicants. Annually, a total starting at €500,000 is made available to community-based organisations to carry out integration projects at a national, provincial or local level. Grants ranging from €5,000 to €20,000 are made available to successful organisations. This year 70 projects are set to receive €1,200,776 in funding. Organisations eligible to apply include local community groups, charities, faith-based groups, schools and cultural organisations. Applicant organisations must operate on a not-for-profit basis.
For information regarding the Ireland for Ukraine fund please contact the Department of Rural and Community Development.
513. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth for the current estimate of funding required to meet demographic and unmet need in the disability sector; and if these figures have been adjusted for inflation. [52335/23]
View answerIn July 2021, the Department of Health published the Disability Capacity Review – A Review of Social Care Requirements and Capacity Demand to 2032. This review set out the extra capacity requirements for community disability services up to 2032, based on an analysis of demographic trends and unmet need.
The Capacity Review estimated the extra investment that would be required to meet the anticipated need at between €500m to €1bn by 2032, over 2018-levels of expenditure, which totalled €1.85bn at the time. However, the cost of delivering services has risen since 2018 due a variety of reasons. Therefore, a significant increase in current and capital expenditure, in excess of the estimates set out in the Capacity Review, will be required.
Notwithstanding the capacity deficits identified by the Capacity Review, disability services have received significant increased funding in recent years, with circa €700m extra invested since 2018 leading to a total budget of €2.8bn in 2024. This has delivered further day services placements, increased levels of home support and personal assistance hours, as well as providing for respite, residential and multidisciplinary therapy supports for children and adults. However, Government is committed to doing much more.
In order to drive the process of implementing the recommendations of the Capacity Review, a Disability Action Plan has been developed which sets out targets for the development of necessary capacity in specialist disability services in addition to driving reforms in how those services are planned and delivered. The measures in the Action Plan have been costed based on the latest cost estimates for disability services. The Plan has been approved by Government and is currently being finalised for publication.
514. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth further to Parliamentary Question No. 192 of 4 October 2023; if the information sought can be provided as soon as possible (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52345/23]
View answerAs this question refers to service matters, I have asked the Health Service Executive (HSE) to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible. As the Deputy may be aware, the industrial action that commenced on Friday 6th October, by management and administrative grades in Fórsa Trade Union in the HSE, will impact on the response times to Parliamentary Questions and Representations.
515. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth further to Parliamentary Question No. 439 of 21 November 2023, if he has made representations to his counterparts in Britain and Northern Ireland in respect of ensuring that legislation to prohibit the practice of conversion therapy is sufficient to prevent persons from being sent to Northern Ireland to access such prohibited therapies. [52351/23]
View answerThe Programme for Government contains a commitment to legislate to ban conversion therapy. The National LGBTI Youth Strategy 2018 – 2020 and the National LGBTI+ Inclusion Strategy 2019 – 2021 contain commitments in relation to conversion therapy. The LGBTI+ National Youth Strategy provides for the prohibition of “the promotion or practice of conversion therapy by health professionals in Ireland” and the National LGBTI+ Inclusion Strategy commits to investigating conversion therapy in Ireland and following up with appropriate counter measures.
Policy deliberations have been informed by a broad range of factors including but not limited to the TCD research, international research and an analysis of legislation in other jurisdictions. My Department is aware of legislative proposals under consideration, as well as recently passed legislation, in a number of jurisdictions across Europe, including in the UK, to prohibit conversion practices. Officials are engaging, where appropriate, with international experts and colleagues in other jurisdictions on these proposals to examine international best practice. My Department continues to engage with relevant Government Departments on the matter to inform the legislative proposals.
Given the potential complex and sensitive nature of the proposed legislation, the Government is carefully considering the underpinning policy matters to ensure that vulnerable members of society are protected from these harmful practices and that necessary and appropriate services for those with concerns in areas of sexual orientation and gender identity are not affected. Work on drafting the General Scheme is ongoing and officials continue to engage with the Office of the Attorney General on the matter. It is planned that legislative proposals will be brought forward shortly and it is a priority for Government this year.
516. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth further to Parliamentary Question No. 466 of 14 November 2023, the equivalent average cost per night in privately owned accommodation. [52372/23]
View answerI thank the Deputy for his question. This information will be forwarded directly to the Deputy in the coming days.
517. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to provide details on the research commissioned by his Department to examine issues of concern relating to children aged under 16 years of age being able to access a gender recognition certificate and/or self-declare their gender; the person or company contracted to provide this research and the costs incurred; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52393/23]
View answerThe Programme for Government contains a commitment, in terms of gender recognition, to examine arrangements for those aged under 16.
DCEDIY has jointly commissioned research, with the Department of Social Protection, to identify the mechanisms used in other countries which govern legal gender recognition of children aged under 16 and to provide practical advice in relation to recognition for this age group.
The aim of the research is to examine and learn from other countries that have enacted legislation, supported and engaged with the issue of gender recognition for under 16s. The research will provide practical advice to inform consideration of how the issue may be approached in Ireland.
A Request for Tenders document was issued on eTenders on 24th June with a closing date of 22nd September 2022. The research was awarded to Cambridge University Technical Services Limited in September 2022 and is ongoing at present. The total cost of the research is €35,000, ex VAT.
518. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the estimated cost to implement a 12.5% increase across the board for youth funding schemes. [52410/23]
View answerThe total cost to implement a 12.5% increase across the board for youth funding schemes is €9,118,500 in current funding and €337,500 in capital funding.
Table - Cost of increasing funding to Youth Funding Schemes by 12.5%
|
Current Funding |
2023 Funding Provision |
Funding Provision incorporating 12.5% increase |
Cost of a 12.5% increase on 2023 Funding Provision |
|
Youth Services Grant Scheme |
€13,402,061 |
€15,077,318.63 |
€1,675,257.63 |
|
Youth Information Centres |
€1,534,012 |
€1,725,763.50 |
€191,751.50 |
|
ETB Youth Grant |
€5,007,879 |
€5,633,863.88 |
€625,984.88 |
|
Local Youth Club Grant Scheme |
€2,500,000 |
€2,812,500 |
€312,500 |
|
New Initiatives and other funding streams |
€861,645 |
€969,350.63 |
€107,705.63 |
|
Policy and Support Programmes (inc. contingency) |
€1,399,922 |
€1,574,912.25 |
€174,990.25 |
|
Other National Youth Organisations and Youth Initiatives |
€1,952,353 |
€2,196,397.13 |
€244,044.13 |
|
UBU Your Place Your Space Funding Scheme and other targeted youth funding |
€46,290,128 |
€52,076,394 |
€5,786,266 |
|
Total |
€72,948,000 |
€82,066,500 |
€9,118,500 |
|
Capital Funding |
2023 Funding Provision |
Funding Provision incorporating 12.5% increase |
Cost of a 12.5% increase on 2023 Funding Provision |
|
Youth Capital Funding |
€2,250,000 |
€2,531,250 |
€281,250 |
|
Play and Recreation Funding |
€450,000 |
€506,250 |
€56,250 |
|
Total |
€2,700,000 |
€3,037,500 |
€337,500 |
519. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the number of applications received to date in 2023 for respite care in counties Cavan and Monaghan; and the number of persons on a waiting list to get respite care service in the counties, in tabular form. [52411/23]
View answer520. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the number of applications received to date in 2023 for respite care; and the number of persons on a waiting list to get respite care service. [52412/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 519 and 520 together.
As these questions refer to service matters, I have asked the Health Service Executive (HSE) to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
As the Deputy may be aware, the industrial action that commenced on Friday 6th October, by management and administrative grades in Fórsa Trade Union in the HSE, will impact on the response times to Parliamentary Questions and Representations.
521. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the way the charter of accounts for core funding aligns with the practical and financial realities in the childcare sector, given the COA's complex requirements seem excessive, particularly for small providers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52413/23]
View answerCore Funding, which commenced in September 2022, is a grant to Early Learning and Care (ELC) and/or School Age Childcare (SAC) providers towards their operating costs. Its primary purpose is to improve pay and conditions in the sector as a whole and improve affordability for parents as well as ensuring a stable income to providers.
All Partner Services that had an active Core Funding Contract during the 2022/2023 Programme Year must provide validated Financial Returns as per their Core Funding Partner Service Funding Agreement.
Core Funding payments to providers must run on a programme year, September-August, in line with the school year, the operation of the ELC and SAC sector, and the payments made to providers under the other DCEDIY schemes. Therefore, the financial returns cover the period from 1st September 2022 to 31st August 2023 and must be submitted by an accountant from a registered practice or a registered professional body (ACA, ACAA, CPA, and CIMA), on behalf of each Partner Service.
My Department is not requesting audited accounts, Partner Services are instead being asked to provide financial information mapped to the Core Funding Chart of Accounts, which has been reviewed, signed off and submitted by an accountant.
Services that already use accountancy packages should be able map to the Core Funding nominal codes from the Chart of Accounts. However, if a service does not use an accountancy package, a series of resources have been designed to assist services with meeting this requirement.
My officials have, in recent weeks, engaged with the Early Learning and Childcare Stakeholder Forum (ELCSF) on issues raised by providers on the financial reporting requirements under Core Funding.
To date, three meetings have taken place on 7th , 20th November and on 27th November involving members and nominees from Childhood Services Ireland (CSI), Childminding Ireland, Early Childhood Ireland (ECI), the Association of Childhood Professionals Ireland (ACPI), the Federation of Early Childhood Providers (FECP), the National Childhood Network (NCN), the National Community Childcare Forum and Seas Suas as well as representatives from City/County Childcare Committees (CCC) and Pobal.
Arising from these meetings, officials have developed and discussed proposals to significantly simplify and streamline the reporting requirements under Core Funding and to support providers in preparing and submitting these returns. They are now in the process of finalising updated financial reporting requirements and templates, which will be shared with members and nominees of the ELCSF in advance of publication. Once finalised, updated financial reporting requirements will be shared with providers and all communications, including templates and training material will be updated.
My Department acknowledges that there is additional administration for providers with the introduction of new schemes such as the NCS and Core Funding, and has allocated €32.13 million for administration under Core Funding in year two, and €35.34m for the third year of the scheme. In addition, a number of targeted supports are being considered by my Department to enable Core Funding Partner Services to comply with the financial reporting requirement.
In any instances where a service is experiencing financial difficulty, they can reach out to their local City/County Childcare Committee and avail of Case Management Supports. This can include operational supports as well as financial supports through Sustainability Funding if deemed appropriate.
