Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 December 2022
37. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if her Department has been informed by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth when centres for persons in the International Protection system are being opened in communities. [62714/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the deputy is aware, responsibility for the provision of accommodation and related services to people in the International Protection process rests with International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS), who operate within the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.
My officials are in regular contact with IPAS and my Department provides a range of supports to people in the International Protection system once they are accommodated in a community. These supports are provided via SICAP, the Social Inclusion Community Activation Programme, which provides funding to tackle poverty and social exclusion through local engagement and partnerships between disadvantaged individuals, community organisations and public sector agencies.
SICAP provides spaces for new communities to meet local people and develop social connections through for example dance and music, providing opportunities for the groups to celebrate their cultures and interact with locals. Tailored support is delivered to asylum seekers and refugees in particular, to help progression to employment and self-employment.
My officials continue to work closely with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to ensure the appropriate supports are provided to those who need them most.
