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Immigration Policy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 May 2021

Thursday, 27 May 2021

Ceisteanna (230, 231)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

230. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the extent to which integration is being seriously pursued with a view to ensuring that the best possible options are available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29077/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

231. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the degree to which integration is being satisfactorily pursued as a policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29078/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 230 and 231 together.

The Migrant Integration Strategy is the central policy framework adopted by Government to promote the integration of all migrants who are legally in the State. It contains 76 targeted actions aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion across all aspects of Irish society, including increased focus on social inclusion measures and improved access to public services. It also aims to addresses racism and xenophobia, representing a whole-of-Government approach.

The implementation of this strategy is overseen by a steering committee which draws together State and non-State actors to deliver a better quality of life for all through targeted actions to promote social inclusion and improved access to public services and I chair the meetings of the committee charged with the monitoring and oversight of this strategy.

In November 2020, I announced the extension of the MIS to the end of 2021 due to the impact of Covid-19 on the Committee’s ability to engage and report on the Strategy actions. This extension will enable the actions of the Strategy to continue to be implemented while facilitating the preparations for a new strategic policy approach to migrant integration.

Building on the work of the MIS Mid-Term Progress Report, my Department is also continuing with existing plans to have an independent evaluation of the Strategy in 2021 which will form part of future strategic planning.

As part of this work to inform the development of a robust successor strategy to the MIS, I will work with stakeholders to examine what has been achieved over the term of the MIS and how we can bring forth the next iterations of those strategies and ensure they are even more effective.

Question No. 231 answered with Question No. 230.
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