Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 July 2020
801. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the extra resources being put in place nationwide to help, facilitate and make welcome the 46 new Syrian families moving to County Tipperary in the coming weeks and months across housing, health, education, social protection and so on in tabular form. [18677/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Irish Refugee Protection Programme (IRPP) was established in September 2015 as a key part of Ireland’s response to the migration crisis in southern Europe. It committed Ireland to accept up to 4,000 persons under various strands, including the EU Relocation Mechanism and the UNHCR-led Resettlement Programme. A commitment was made to accept a further 2,900 refugees under Phase 2 of the Programme.
A total of 230 refugees admitted under the IRPP have been allocated for resettlement in County Tipperary. The process of resettlement is being managed by Tipperary County Council in accordance with processes agreed by the Cross-Departmental Taskforce established in September 2015 to manage and coordinate the logistical aspects of resettling people in Ireland under the IRPP.
To support and advance the transition of refugee families towards independent living, my Department is providing funding of €414,000 to Tipperary County Council. Spending will be split across the areas of housing, health, education, social protection and will be managed across the subheads as necessary by the Council itself.
The resettlement of refugees into the community has been paused since March as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. I am currently considering proposals to resume this activity over the coming weeks, bearing in mind current public health advice.
The Tipperary Refugee Resettlement Programme is expected to conclude in September 2021.
