andMr. Begley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is aware of the need to provide financial assistance for Irish citizens in Britain; if so, if he will arrange to increase the amount made available; and if he will ensure that the funds so provided are distributed to the best advantage.
Written Answers. - Assistance for Irish Emigrants.
41.
Mr. L.T. Cosgrave, Mr. M. Cosgrave
I am aware of the increasing problems being faced especially by young Irish citizens who go to Britain to seek work and of the plight in which many of them find themselves. Many go unprepared and with no pre-arranged employment or lodgings. In addition to the various reports on this subject I have, myself, visited Irish community groups in Britain on several occasions since I came to office and intend to continue to do so at regular intervals.
In addition to the normal consular services our Embassy in London has a community liaison officer who maintains contact with all Irish organisations in Britain. An officer from the Department of Labour is also attached to the embassy. He maintains contact with Irish bodies which provide welfare services for emigrants in Britain. He is also chairman of an advisory group, called DION, which advises the Minister for Labour on questions relating to the welfare of Irish emigrants in Britain. The Minister for Labour has a fund to help the Irish welfare groups. This fund was increased from £38,000 in 1983 to IR £68,000 in 1984 and to IR£104,000 in 1985. This was allocated to 12 welfare and advisory groups following the advice of the DION committee.