Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 January 2005
474 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the report of prevalence of depression and alcohol and drug abuse among Irish emigrants to the US as reported to the annual conference of the Coalition of Irish Immigration Centers; and the measures he has taken or will take to provide or otherwise secure treatment or other assistance. [1550/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am acutely aware of the concerns expressed, including at the recent annual conference of the National Coalition of Irish Immigration Centers in the United States, regarding the well-being of some Irish emigrants living in the United States. The Irish immigration centres, which are located across the United States, form an integral part of their local Irish community. They provide much needed front line services to meet a wide range of needs. These needs include problems arising from depression, anxiety or substance misuse.
My colleague, the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, was present at the coalition's conference and heard at first hand of the concerns of those in the Irish immigration centres. Officials of my Department were also present at the conference and maintain close contact with the immigration centres and the Irish community. This ongoing engagement and co-operation with the organisations affiliated to the National Coalition of Irish Immigration Centers ensures that they have an effective channel of communication to the Government. They know that we are listening to them, and that we are taking on board their needs.
The Government is strongly committed to supporting these centres in their invaluable work to help vulnerable Irish people living in the United States. A number of these centres are actively developing counselling services to address the needs of the Irish community and we are happy to be supporting them in this critical area.
I am pleased to note that funding to Irish immigration centres in the United States in 2004 increased by 83% on 2003. I intend to see this level of funding grow even further this year and in the period ahead so that we can continue to support the delivery of key services and outreach to Irish people in need in the United States.
