Written Answers Nos. 1027-1046
1027. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth when the National Autism Strategy report will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48057/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government contains a commitment to action on autism. The development of a new national autism strategy, the Autism Innovation Strategy, is currently underway and I expect to be in a position to publish a draft text later this year or early next year. This is an important priority for me as Minister of State.
Development of the strategy is currently at an advanced stage with drafting of the strategy being finalised at present. This follows several months of engagements right across Government to agree a suite of clear, simple actions that can address gaps in existing supports and services for Autistic people within an 18 month timeframe. This process has included careful consideration of the recommendations contained in the final report of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Autism and the findings of a public consultation held in 2022.
The Autism Innovation Strategy Oversight and Advisory Group was also appointed in December 2022, following an application process. This group, which is majority Neurodivergent, will play a key role in monitoring implementation of the strategy, and in providing constructive advice based on the lived experience and expertise of group members.
Once drafting of the strategy is complete, there will be a further public consultation prior to the formal adoption of the Autism Innovation Strategy. It intended that implementation of the strategy will begin in early 2024 and that is the clear focus of work at present.
The Autism Innovation Strategy will identify ways to address the bespoke challenges and barriers faced by Autistic people and provide the building blocks for a more autism-inclusive society. It will seek to provide for better mainstream understanding and accommodation of the needs of Autistic people. The strategy will be cross-Government in nature and will take a holistic approach towards addressing these challenges in a way that complements and aligns with wider action on disability. While my Department is coordinating development of the strategy, delivery of actions will be the responsibility of relevant departments and agencies in line with their areas of responsibility.
1028. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the average time it takes to access CDNT services in CHO7; the number of children currently waiting to access services; and the number of children waiting longer than 12 months. [48065/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs this question refers to service matters, I have asked the Health Service Executive (HSE) to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible. As the Deputy may be aware, the industrial action that commenced on Friday 6th October, by management and administrative grades in Fórsa Trade Union in the HSE, will impact on the response times to Parliamentary Questions and Representations.
1029. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the reason childcare providers are being directed to supply validated financial returns to cover the period from 1 September 2022 to 31 August 2023 for core funding, considering that this will result in additional costs for those whose audited accounts are already completed for the 2022 tax calendar year; if additional funding will be allocated to the childcare sector to enable it to comply with this requirement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48082/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll Partner Services that had an active Core Funding Contract during the 2022/2023 Programme Year must provide validated Financial Returns.
Core Funding payments to providers must run on a programme year, September-August, in line with the school year, the operation of the Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School-Age Childcare (SAC) sector, and the payments made to providers under the other DCEDIY schemes. Therefore, the financial returns cover the period from 1st September 202
2 to 31st August 2023 and must be submitted by an accountant from a registered practise or a registered professional body (ACA, ACAA, CPA, and CIMA), on behalf of each Partner Service. My Department is not requesting audited accounts.
To facilitate these reporting requirements, my Department has worked collaboratively with an external consultant to finalise the nominal codes for the Core Funding Chart of Accounts and develop the Core Funding Financial Reporting template and associated financial management tool.
My Department acknowledges the increase in administration for providers with the introduction of new schemes such as the NCS and Core Funding. I have allocated €32.13 million for administration under Core Funding in year two, and €35.34m for the third year of the scheme.
In addition a number of targeted supports are being considered by my Department to enable Core Funding Partner Services to comply with the financial reporting requirement.
In any instances where a service is experiencing financial difficulty, they can reach out to their local City/County Childcare Committee and avail of Case Management Supports. This can include operational supports as well as financial supports through Sustainability Funding if deemed appropriate.
1030. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if there are currently any plans for the relocation of families and individuals seeking international protection or temporary protection to Edgeworthstown, County Longford. [48117/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland has provided accommodation to over 99,000 people between those fleeing Ukraine and International Protection applicants. This compares with 8,300 in February 2022. This includes over 74,000 Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) from Ukraine who required State supported accommodation.
In the context of this crisis, the State is availing of all suitable offers of accommodation made in order to address the urgent accommodation need. As a result of current constraints on temporary accommodation, it is necessary for the Department to transfer Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection to accommodation as and where it becomes available. My Department is considering accommodation suitable offers in all Counties, taking into account existing numbers and available service provision.
My Department currently does not have any contracted accommodation in the place to which the Deputy refers.
The Department is conscious of the need to ensure quality in all accommodation contracted, while also providing shelter and safety urgently to those who need it. In considering offers, my Department takes into account a range of factors such as accommodation suitability, rates, capacity and amenities. Every effort is being made to activate suitable accommodation offers.
1031. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the extent to which he has plans to expand or improve facilities for children with particular reference to children at risk or potentially at risk; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48132/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraStatutory and operational responsibility for the delivery of child protection and welfare services is a matter for Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. The Deputy is seeking information in relation to an operational matter for Tusla. Consequently, I have referred the matter to Tusla, and requested that a direct response be provided to the Deputy.
1032. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the extent to which it is intended to develop an early response/alert system to address any issues arising in respect of children at risk; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48133/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraStatutory and operational responsibility for the delivery of child protection and welfare services is a matter for Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. The Deputy is seeking information in relation to an operational matter for Tusla. Consequently, I have referred the matter to Tusla, and requested that a direct response be provided to the Deputy.
1033. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth his plans for review of cases of children at risk brought to his Department's attention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48134/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraStatutory and operational responsibility for the delivery of child protection and welfare services is a matter for Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. The Deputy is seeking information in relation to an operational matter for Tusla. Consequently, I have referred the matter to Tusla, and requested that a direct response be provided to the Deputy.
1034. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the extent to which the need has arisen to develop and expand youth services since the pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48135/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere is growing evidence to demonstrate that the pandemic had substantial consequences for young people. With that in mind, it is critical that our young people are supported as they experience the social, economic, physical and mental health impacts of the pandemic.
In recognition of the vital role played by youth services in providing support to young people, funding levels were maintained throughout the period of restrictions. This enabled the youth sector to continue to provide services to young people, particularly to marginalised, disadvantaged and vulnerable young people.
In relation to the further development of youth services, from 2020 to Budget 2024, current Exchequer funding for youth services and programmes increased from €61.789 million to €77.95 million, a 26% increase overall. The focus of this increase has been on further investment in local and national youth organisations.
I remain committed to supporting this important sector, following the pandemic and beyond, which has enormous value to the many young people involved and from a broader social and economic viewpoint.
1035. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the extent to which his Department continues to liaise with youth representatives with a view to establishing the highest possible contact and dialogue in order to meet their requirements to an even greater extent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48136/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department and I maintain substantial engagement with organisations representing youth services and my Department funds and supports the participation of children and young people in decision-making across local and national government.
My Department provides funding to Education and Training Boards (ETB) to support youth services in their area. My officials hold quarterly meetings with the ETBs and these meetings assist my Department in identifying service needs and emerging issues, particularly for vulnerable young people.
Last year the UBU programme manager within my Department visited all 16 ETBs and over 70 youth services/organisations nationwide, engaging with youth service managers, youth workers and young people.
My officials maintain regular contact with the 30 national and major regional youth organisations funded under the Youth Service Grant Scheme and with Gaisce. This includes the National Youth Organisation Meeting which I attend twice a year to hear directly from the sector.
In relation to hearing directly from young people, Comhairle na nÓg (local youth councils) are child and youth councils (12 – 17 years) that operate in each of the 31 Local Authority areas across Ireland. Dáil na nÓg (youth parliament) is a biennial national youth parliament for young people (12 – 17 years), with 200 delegates elected through local Comhairlí. Each Comhairle na nÓg (youth council) elects representatives to the Comhairle na nÓg National Executive to take action at a national level on young people’s vote at Dáil na nÓg.
The National Youth Assembly of Ireland, established 2022, is an overarching structure to allow young people (12 – 24 years) consider issues of national importance and to feed their views into Government policy. DCEDIY established Hub na nÓg as a centre of excellence and best practice in child and youth participation. Hub na nÓg has a particular focus on including the voice of seldom heard children and young people on matters that affect them.
The National Participation Office (NPO) was established within DCEDIY to support the safe participation of children and young people in decision-making at local and national level. The NPO provides child safeguarding and measures to include seldom-heard children and young people. In 2023 there have been two Youth Assemblies, the National Youth Assembly on Climate which took place in March and the Rural Youth Assembly which took place in October with a number of recommendations made by children and young people.
Officials from my Department meet with various youth organisations on an individual basis when the need arises, in regular formal meetings with individual organisations or as a group, and by maintaining informal contacts.
My Department will continue to engage with all stakeholders in the sector to ensure that we are providing supports to youth organisations and to young people.
1036. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to outline the extent to which the integration programmes available through his Department continue to be of direct assistance to the relevant cohort; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48137/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraDear Deputy,My Department in collaboration with the Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH), the City and County Management Association (CCMA) and the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) have developed a new local integration model. The Department is providing funding to each Local Authority to establish a Local Authority Integration Team (LAIT). The primary role of the LAITs is to provide ongoing integration supports to IP applicants, Programme Refugees and BOTP to enable them to live independently in the community. The LAITs are not intended to replace mainstream service provision but to support IP applicants, Programme Refugees and BOTP in accessing mainstream services.
In addition, my Department administers a number of funding streams addressing integration.
The National Integration Fund (NIF) has the goal of supporting communities across Ireland to play a greater role in promoting the integration of migrants is open to organisations operating at regional and national level. The NIF themes of enhancing employment opportunities for migrants, with a focus on language acquisition; promoting representation of migrants in politics; and encouraging migrant participation in sport, volunteering and cultural activities. Approximately €750,000 is committed per year, subject to the availability of funds. The minimum annual grant amount that can be applied for will be €25,000, and grants may range up to €200,000 over the lifetime of the project. Applications have just closed for the 2023 version of the fund.
The Communities Integration Fund (CIF) has been in place since 2017 and arises from Action 51 of the Migrant Integration Strategy which states: “A Communities Integration Fund will be developed to support actions by local communities throughout Ireland to promote the integration of migrants and refugees”. Grant funding of €1,000 to €5,000 is mad available for local integration initiatives. Since its inception, the CIF has supported over 820 projects, with grant funding totalling €3.82 million. CIF 2023 awarded 111 organisations once off grant payments, with a total value of €509,415.
My department launched the Ireland Against Racism Fund (IARF) in 2023. IARF in its first year, has made €1.3 million available to applicant groups operating at national, regional and local level. IARF has the overall objective of providing funding for national and regional projects, as well as local initiatives, that aim to combat racism and foster racial equality and community cohesion. There are two streams of funding;
- Scheme A provides grants, ranging from €50,000 to €100,000, to organisations for national and regional projects.
Scheme B provides grants, ranging from €5,000 to €10,000, to organisations for local projects.
The results of the 2023 funding call were issued in September. A combined total of 24 national & regional projects were successful.
The International Protection Integration Fund (IPIF) has a goal to support communities across Ireland so they can play a greater role in promoting the integration of International Protection applicants. Annually, a total starting at €500,000 is made available to community-based organisations to carry out integration projects at a national, provincial or local level. Grants ranging from €5,000 to €20,000 are made available to successful organisations. This year 70 projects have been awarded €1,200,776 in funding. Organisations eligible to apply include local community groups, charities, faith-based groups, schools and cultural organisations. Applicant organisations must operate on a not-for-profit basis.
The International Decade for People of African Descent (IDPAD) Funding Call was a once off funding call held this year to provide funding to support community organisations hosting local, regional and national events to mark and celebrate the Decade. The IDPAD has been planned by the Department in celebration of the ‘International Decade for People of African Descent’, effective through 2015-2024 under resolution 68/237 of the UN General Assembly.
The Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) . Funds Administration Unit of DCEDIY is the Managing Authority of the AMIF Programme in Ireland, for the 2021-2027 Programme period, having fulfilled a similar role for the previous 2014-2020 AMIF Programme. Under Ireland’s national programme, it is intended to provide a range of supports for International Protection applicants, Programme Refugees, Beneficiaries Of Temporary Protection and other third country nationals arriving in Ireland, ranging from information and assistance with basic needs through to specialist supports in areas such as medical/psychosocial and legal assistance; to delegate and oversee activities via Direct Awards to specialised bodies; and to fund the management of returns of third country nationals to their country of origin, where appropriate.
Funds Administration Unit manages the Integration and Employment of Migrants stream of the European Social Fund Plus 2021-2027 Programme (DFHERIS is that Programme’s Managing Authority). This Activity is aimed at legally resident migrants who are experiencing barriers to participation and employment because of language difficulties, lack of training or social exclusion. The Activity proposes to increase the levels of employability of the participants.
1037. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the steps he has taken or continues to take to address social and or economic disadvantage amongst the youth cohort; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48138/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere are a number of steps that my Department is taking to address social and/or economic disadvantage amongst children and the youth cohort.
Ireland’s National Action Plan under the EU Child Guarantee details efforts to address child poverty and social exclusion in Ireland, and highlights actions, objectives, targets and timelines in Education, Early Years, Health, Nutrition and Housing. The Action Plan seeks to promote service integration and awareness of supports at local level, and commits to the development of local child poverty action plans. My Department has responsibility for the co-ordination of this Action Plan across Government.
It is important to identify appropriate and effective structures to pursue necessary reforms to improve outcomes for disadvantaged children and young people. The forthcoming new National Framework for Children and Young People, currently being finalised, will inform the implementation of Ireland’s Child Guarantee National Action Plan.
The Action Plan commits to establish four pilot Child Poverty Local Area Action Plans in Children and Young People’s Services Committees areas. This is in conjunction with Local Community Development Committees under the remit of the Department of Rural and Community Development. Four pilot sites will be identified to implement local plans, maximise learning, and assess the feasibility of actions in both rural and urban areas. Other factors considered are population density, deprivation levels, local service provision, and diversity of service users.
Both my Department and the Department of Rural and Community Development are working together in conjunction with Taoiseach’s Child Poverty and Well Being Office to develop an expressions of interest process for joint applications by Children and Young People’s Services Committees and Local Community Development Committees in 2024. The recently released 2022 Pobal HP Deprivation Index will inform the planning and application process.
The previously mentioned National Policy Framework for Children and Young People will introduce ‘Spotlight’ programmes to address areas of significant challenge which need focused, coordinated responses across Government. The first Spotlight on Child Poverty has begun with the establishment of the Child Poverty and Well-being Programme Office in the Department of the Taoiseach. From Poverty to Potential: A Programme Plan for Child Poverty and Well-being 2023-2025 focuses on six areas for early action, and brings together policies and services to make a real impact on the lives of children living in poverty.
The initial focus is on making sure that every child and their family has access to: the income they need; early learning and care; reduced cost of education; prevention and mitigation of family homelessness; pathways to access the services they need; and arts culture and sports opportunities.
The Framework will also incorporate the implementation of the European Child Guarantee, and ensure that it is collaborative, integrated and impactful. The implementation and monitoring of the National Action Plan will be incorporated into the Framework’s governance and monitoring structures. It is expected that Ireland will report on its progress in the implementation of its National Action Plan to the EU Commission every two years, with the first of these reports due in 2024. This report will primarily cover activities carried out and measures implemented since the adoption of the EU Child Guarantee Recommendation.
The Framework’s governance structures, which are planned to include representation from young people and civil society, as well as representation at senior level from across Government Departments and relevant agencies, will monitor progress on identified priorities to improve the lives of children and young people in Ireland.
My Department also supports measures to ensure that the child and youth participation structures under its remit are inclusive of all children and young people. Children and young people are supported where required to attend Comhairle na nÓg (local youth councils); Dáil na nÓg (biennial youth parliament), the National Youth Assembly of Ireland, national consultations on public policy and related meetings or events. DCEDIY also supports measures to ensure that communications and youth participation meetings or events are accessible for children and young people with additional needs or who require additional supports. The Comhairle na nÓg Five Year Development Plan, currently being implemented, has a number of specific actions to ensure the accessibility and inclusivity of Comhairle na nÓg and related structures for all children and young people. Hub na nÓg, the centre for excellence and best practice in child and youth participation, has a particular focus on including the voice of seldom heard children and young people in decision-making on matters that affect them, this includes children and young people affected by social or economic disadvantage.
I remain committed to building a robust evidence base to inform policy decisions into the future, having commissioned published research from the ESRI and Maynooth University on the topic of child poverty in recent years. In addition, as part of the Child Poverty and Well-being Programme, a Cross Government Network on Child Poverty and Child Well-being has been launched. This network will provide a forum for the sharing of research and policy thinking, as well as generate greater visibility and collaboration in the work being done across the whole government to tackle Child Poverty in Ireland.
I am also committed to continued support of Growing Up in Ireland – the longitudinal study of children in Ireland. Growing Up in Ireland provides a unique depth of data to inform policy making in multiple domains, including child poverty.
My Department will provide funding of almost €73m for the youth sector in 2023. The level of funding supports the delivery of a range of youth work programmes and services for all young people, including those from disadvantaged communities, by the voluntary youth work sector. Youth work programmes and services are delivered by volunteers in communities throughout the country.
The largest youth funding scheme provided by my Department is UBU Your Place Your Space. In 2023, over €46m was allocated to UBU funded organisations. UBU serves to improve the seven personal and social developmental outcomes of young people aged 10-24 years who are experiencing marginalisation, disadvantage or are vulnerable. These outcomes are:
1. Emotional Intelligence
2. Communication Skills
3. Confidence
4. Planning and Problem Solving
5. Creativity and Imagination
6. Relationships and
7. Resilience and Determination
There is strong evidence showing that approaches that focus on building social and emotional capabilities such as these can have good long-term impact for disadvantaged young people. When applying for funding under UBU, youth services must detail which outcome their proposed activities is seeking to develop.
Lastly, Budget 2024 provides investment for the initial roll out of the Equal Participation Model (EPM), which will support services to enhance supports to all children in early learning and childcare who may be vulnerable or disadvantaged. The supports are both universal and targeted, meaning some are for all early learning and childcare services and the children they serve, while some are for services who provide early learning and childcare in a context of high levels of concentrated disadvantage.
The response will be multifaceted reflecting the complexity of need and will be rolled out in stages as funding becomes available and as design of certain elements is progressed. EPM will start from September 2024 with phase one, with phases two and three following in subsequent years.
The final design of initial supports is being worked on but will focus in particular on enhanced supports to services with higher numbers of children from areas experiencing disadvantage.
Budget 2024 also provides for an increase in the sponsor rate, under the National Childcare Scheme for children aged one and over, to €5.30 from a minimum of €4.31 - €5.00 depending on the age of the child. Sponsored awards are specifically targeted at more vulnerable families based on family need, homelessness, or refugee status. It gives the highest subsidy without the need for an income assessment.
1038. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the number of cases in respect of which satisfactory integration programmes have been initiated in each particular area throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48139/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraDear Deputy, My Department in collaboration with the Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH), the City and County Management Association (CCMA) and the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) have developed a new local integration model. The Department is providing funding to each Local Authority to establish a Local Authority Integration Team (LAIT). The primary role of the LAITs is to provide ongoing integration supports to IP applicants, Programme Refugees and BOTP to enable them to live independently in the community. The LAITs are not intended to replace mainstream service provision but to support IP applicants, Programme Refugees and BOTP in accessing mainstream services.
In addition, my Department administers a number of funding streams addressing integration.
The National Integration Fund (NIF) has the goal of supporting communities across Ireland to play a greater role in promoting the integration of migrants is open to organisations operating at regional and national level. The NIF themes of enhancing employment opportunities for migrants, with a focus on language acquisition; promoting representation of migrants in politics; and encouraging migrant participation in sport, volunteering and cultural activities. Approximately €750,000 is committed per year, subject to the availability of funds. The minimum annual grant amount that can be applied for will be €25,000, and grants may range up to €200,000 over the lifetime of the project. Applications have just closed for the 2023 version of the fund. See below the organisations granted funding in the 2020 Funding Call and completing their work over the last 3 years.
|
Organisation: |
Geographical Scope: |
|
An Cumann Peile Boiteimeac, Cuideachta Faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta. (The Bohemian Football Club ) |
Dublin |
|
Serve the City Ireland |
Dublin |
|
Dublin City Community Co-operative ('the Co-op') |
Dublin |
|
Fingal Migrant Integration Forum |
Dublin |
|
South Dublin County Partnership |
Dublin |
|
Galway City Partnership |
Galway |
|
Mary Immaculate College |
Limerick |
|
Bridgeways Family Resource Centre |
Longford |
|
Meath County Council |
Meath |
|
Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Ireland |
Nationwide |
|
Focus Ireland |
Nationwide |
|
Nasc, the Migrant and Refuge Rights Centre |
Nationwide |
|
SPORT AGAINST RACISM IRELAND (SARI) |
Nationwide |
|
Dublin City University (DCU) |
Nationwide |
|
EQUAL Ireland |
Nationwide |
|
Localise Youth Volunteering |
Nationwide |
|
Migrant Rights Centre Ireland |
Nationwide |
|
Tipperary County Council (In conjunction with Tipperary LCDC) |
Tipperary |
The Communities Integration Fund (CIF) has been in place since 2017 and arises from Action 51 of the Migrant Integration Strategy which states: “A Communities Integration Fund will be developed to support actions by local communities throughout Ireland to promote the integration of migrants and refugees”. Grant funding of €1,000 to €5,000 is mad available for local integration initiatives. Since its inception, the CIF has supported over 820 projects, with grant funding totalling €3.82 million. CIF 2023 awarded 111 organisations once off grant payments, with a total value of €509,415. See the table below for this year’s successful organisations and projects.
|
Organisation: |
Project Name: |
County: |
|
Equal Chances Polish School CLG |
Diversity Against Gravity |
Carlow |
|
St. Catherine’s Community Services Centre |
St. Catherine’s International Women’s Group |
Carlow |
|
Association of Nigerians Community Clare |
Cultural Table |
Clare |
|
Killaloe Ballina Tennis Club |
Tennis for All |
Clare |
|
North West Clare Family Resource Centre CLG |
Integrated Homework Club |
Clare |
|
Scoil Mhainchin, Ennistymon National School |
Ennistymon National School Arts for All Festival |
Clare |
|
CDYS Mallow |
The Big Blue Cube |
Cork |
|
Cork Migrant Centre, Nano Nagle Place |
International Garden |
Cork |
|
IRD Duhallow CLG |
Duhallow Community Integration Project |
Cork |
|
Schull Community Care Organization Ltd |
Ukrainian Community Integration Project |
Cork |
|
Street Feast CLG |
Street Feast Together |
Cork |
|
Vision Community Support Services (VCSS) |
VCSS Multicultural Day Event |
Cork |
|
Barrack Hill Town Park Steering Committee |
Community Events at Barrack Hill Town Park organised and run by volunteers from both communities |
Donegal |
|
Downstrands Family Resource Centre |
The Hub Homework Club |
Donegal |
|
ACET Ireland |
Antiracism responses in the city |
Dublin |
|
Adamstown Community Summer Camp |
Adamstown Engaging with Irish History Project |
Dublin |
|
Amal Women Association |
Healing through art for migrant women |
Dublin |
|
AMBI - Association of Brazilian Families in Ireland |
Brazil in Your School |
Dublin |
|
Association of Ogun State Indigenes in Ireland |
Ogun State Cultural Awareness |
Dublin |
|
Balbriggan Integration Forum |
Balbriggan Youth Forum (college visits) |
Dublin |
|
Baldoyle Family Resource Service CLG |
Ukrainian Adolescent & Young Adult Support programme |
Dublin |
|
The Bohemian Football Club CLG |
Bohemian Football Club Multicultural Family Day |
Dublin |
|
THE BOLD WOMAN ASSOCIATION |
Migrant Women - A project assisting migrant women to integrate into Irish society |
Dublin |
|
The City Farm and Community Gardens Ballymun |
Food tastes better when we eat together |
Dublin |
|
Comhlamh |
Comhlamh Ireland Says Welcome Multi-Cultural Culture Night |
Dublin |
|
Cultures Meet Ireland |
Fingal Network Against Racism |
Dublin |
|
Donabate Portrane Community Centre CLG |
Fáilte Isteach |
Dublin |
|
Dublin City University |
Irish Refugee Integration Network |
Dublin |
|
Dublin Northwest Partnership |
The Lift Programme |
Dublin |
|
East Wall Here For All |
Inter-Generational Integration |
Dublin |
|
Empower |
Three Social Sports |
Dublin |
|
Finglas Youth Resource Centre |
Finglas Unite |
Dublin |
|
Foróige |
Balbriggan Foróige Youth Diversity & Inclusion Committee. Event/Project Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion |
Dublin |
|
Hill Street Family Resource Centre |
An Intercultural Story Exchange project with Hill Street FRC parents and local people from both the migrant ethnic communities and the indigenous communities |
Dublin |
|
Irish Institute of Music and Song |
Afro-Irish Cultural Heritage |
Dublin |
|
Irish Refugee Council |
Solidarity Housing Support Volunteers |
Dublin |
|
Irish Refugee Council |
IRC Youth Arts Project |
Dublin |
|
Muslim Sisters Of Eire |
Youth Camp/Summer Project |
Dublin |
|
Muslim Sisters Of Eire |
Youth Mental Health and Well Being |
Dublin |
|
Muslim Sisters Of Eire |
Women’s health and wellbeing series |
Dublin |
|
Novas (Arlington Novas Ireland Limited) |
Bellevue House Community Day |
Dublin |
|
Ongar Community Centre |
Ongar Community Development Programme |
Dublin |
|
ReWrite Arts Limited |
Creative writing workshops and design of children's book by Muslim women |
Dublin |
|
Ruhama |
Intercultural Group |
Dublin |
|
Saoirse Housing Association CLG |
LEAP (Learn-Empower-Achieve-Progress) |
Dublin |
|
Social Space Ireland |
SSI Youth Spark |
Dublin |
|
Southside Partnership |
EMPOWER |
Dublin |
|
Stanhope Street Primary school |
C.A.R.E Children Always Reaching out to Each other |
Dublin |
|
Team Zimbabwe Ireland |
Sports for Social Integration of Migrants |
Dublin |
|
CURVE - Committee of Ukrainian Residents and Volunteers in Esker |
Sustaining Speaking Clubs |
Galway |
|
FORUM Connemara CLG |
Creative Connections |
Galway |
|
FORUM Connemara CLG |
Forum Connemara Intercultural Project |
Galway |
|
Killorglin Family Resource Centre CLG |
Mid Kerry Womens Steps to Success |
Kerry |
|
The Peoples Market |
Multi-Cultural Multinational Music Event |
Kildare |
|
African Mothers & Youth Association (AMYA) |
African Mothers & Youth Association (AMYA) |
Kilkenny |
|
Kilkenny No Name Club |
Kilkenny No Name Club |
Kilkenny |
|
Labras - Laois Brazilian Support Association |
Laois Brazilian Support Association |
Laois |
|
Laois Integration Network |
A range of intercultural events to celebrate and advance integration and full civic participation in Co. Laois |
Laois |
|
Laois Partnership Company |
Active citizenship of Migrant communities in Co. Laois |
Laois |
|
Drumshanbo Sports Hub |
Ukrainian Women on the Water |
Leitrim |
|
Fenagh Development Company LTD |
Fenagh Welcomes & Heritage Art Project |
Leitrim |
|
Leitrim Ladies LGFA |
Coaching and Development Program |
Leitrim |
|
Leitrim International Community Group |
Intercultural Awareness in Co. Leitrim |
Leitrim |
|
North Leitrim Intercultural Forum (NLIF) |
Active Together Leitrim |
Leitrim |
|
BGM Community Council Ltd. |
SHARE (Sports, Health, Arts, Reflection and Exchange) Community Day |
Limerick |
|
Dóchas Midwest Autism Support |
ASD Community Integration Group |
Limerick |
|
GARRYOWEN CDP |
English in the Home for Pre-School Migrant Children |
Limerick |
|
Kilfinane Community Council |
Kilfinane Community Council Intercultural Food Fair |
Limerick |
|
The Haven Hub CLG |
Unity in The Community Wellness Project |
Limerick |
|
Ballinamuck Community Enterprise |
Ballinamuck Ukraine Solidarity Project |
Longford |
|
Bridgeways Family Resource Centre |
"Blended"- An International food fair that will showcase the best of cuisine from around the world. |
Longford |
|
EDI Centre |
Food and Nutrition Workshops for Children |
Longford |
|
Ethnic Minority Hub |
EMH multicultural event 2023 |
Longford |
|
Longford Women's Link CLG |
Longford Migrant Women's Group ( Culture Connect ) |
Longford |
|
Lough Ree Lanesborough Angling Hub |
The River Bank Ukraine Exchange |
Longford |
|
Lus na Gréine Family Resource Centre CLG |
''More in Common Than in Difference' An intercultural project of shared learning, experiences, friendships, understanding and togetherness' |
Longford |
|
Traveller Health Care Project (Longford Community Resources CLG) |
Men’s Social Soccer Club |
Longford |
|
Cultur Celebrating Diversity |
Louth in Motion. LIM |
Louth |
|
Culture Connect CLG |
Space for All Nations (Drogheda) |
Louth |
|
Culture Connect CLG |
Space for All Nations (Dundalk) |
Louth |
|
Hands 4 Unity CLG |
Taste of All Nations |
Louth |
|
Lifestyle Development Group CLG |
The Festival of International Food |
Louth |
|
Ballyhaunis Community Council CLG |
Ballyhaunis Music Variety Showcase |
Mayo |
|
Ballyhaunis Family Resource Centre |
Integrating Together |
Mayo |
|
Tacú Ballinrobe Family Resource Centre CLG |
Build Your Future |
Mayo |
|
Cultúr Migrants Centre |
Connect4Inclusion |
Meath |
|
Cultúr Migrants Centre |
Inspire Women's Cultural Exchange |
Meath |
|
East Coast FRC |
Friends on the East Coast |
Meath |
|
Ballaghaderreen Community Games |
Integration of Refugee children into Community Games activities |
Roscommon |
|
Foróige, Roscommon Youth Service UBU |
Roscommon Youth Circus Project |
Roscommon |
|
Midlands Polish Community CLG |
International Children's Day |
Roscommon |
|
Roscommon Women's Network (RWN) |
Roscommon Intercultural Textile Upcycling Project |
Roscommon |
|
South Roscommon Family Resource Centre |
Roscommon Integration Family Day |
Roscommon |
|
Aremoja Women's Group |
Aremoja Women's Group |
Sligo |
|
Diversity Sligo |
Come and Meet me |
Sligo |
|
Sligo Family Resource Centre |
Sligo FRC Intercultural Project |
Sligo |
|
Tattie Hoaker Community Farm |
Chernozyom = black soil |
Sligo |
|
Silver Arch Family Resource Centre |
Seasons for Growth |
Tipperary |
|
Siul Eile |
Discover Galty Vee Valley |
Tipperary |
|
Lismore AFC CLG |
Lismore AFC - Football for All |
Waterford |
|
Oasis Housing Association CLG (Oasis House Women's Refuge) |
Children's Arts and Music Creative Workshops: A project to encourage social interaction between migrants and members of their local communities, through arts and crafts, music, dance, theatre and literature |
Waterford |
|
St. Brigid’s Family Resource Centre |
Traditions and cultures within new and host communities. |
Waterford |
|
St. Paul’s Community College |
St. Paul's Community College Integration Project |
Waterford |
|
The Walls Project CLG |
Waterford Walls Community Wall 2023 |
Waterford |
|
Waterford Immigration Network (WIN) |
Social Integration Activities for adults and children living in Direct Provision |
Waterford |
|
Helium Arts |
Joining the Dots |
Westmeath |
|
Mullingar Lithuanian Community |
Family Fun Day |
Westmeath |
|
Gorey Youth Needs Group |
Level the Playing Field |
Wexford |
|
WCI Wexford |
Crafty Connections |
Wexford |
|
Wexford Town Friends of Ukraine (WTFoU) |
Promoting and Facilitating the Integration of Ukrainians and other migrants in the Wexford and Rosslare Municipal Districts |
Wexford |
|
Africa Irish Society of Wicklow |
Wicklow Multicultural Festival 2023 |
Wicklow |
My department launched the Ireland Against Racism Fund (IARF) in 2023. IARF in its first year, has made €1.3 million available to applicant groups operating at national, regional and local level. IARF has the overall objective of providing funding for national and regional projects, as well as local initiatives, that aim to combat racism and foster racial equality and community cohesion. There are two streams of funding;
Scheme A provides grants, ranging from €50,000 to €100,000, to organisations for national and regional projects.
Scheme B provides grants, ranging from €5,000 to €10,000, to organisations for local projects.
The results of the 2023 funding call were issued in September. A combined total of 24 national & regional projects were successful and can be seen in the below tables:
Successful Projects - Scheme A
|
Organisation Name: |
Project Name: |
Geographical Scope: |
|
South Presentation Centre CLG |
Ubuntu (South African word for 'I am because we are') Project |
Cork & Kerry |
|
Bohemian Football Club CLG |
Football Unites Us All |
Dublin |
|
Foróige |
The Lead Project |
Dublin |
|
Sport Against Racism (Ireland) CLG |
Sport for Inclusion |
Dublin |
|
AkiDwA |
Employment, Empowered (The Em 'n' Em Project) |
Nationwide |
|
Doras Luimni CLG |
Victims of Racism Support Service |
Nationwide |
|
Dublin City University Educational Trust |
DCU Anti-Bullying Centre: Understanding and preventing online racism in Ireland - a mixed methods study |
Nationwide |
|
Gorm Media DAC |
The Wideshot Programme |
Nationwide |
|
Immigrant Council of Ireland |
Show Racism the Red Card |
Nationwide |
|
Irish Congress of Trade Unions |
Stronger Together: Organising for active inclusive and anti-racist workplaces and Trade Unions |
Nationwide |
|
Migrant Information Centre Ltd |
Promoting equality for migrants in the employment permit system |
Nationwide |
|
National Youth Council of Ireland |
Empowering Young People and Challenging Racism through Targeted and Mainstream Inclusion in Youth Work |
Nationwide |
|
The Irish Traveller Movement |
The Yellow Flag Programme |
Nationwide |
Successful Projects - Scheme B
|
Organisation Name: |
Project Name: |
Geographical Scope: |
|
Dublin City University, Widening Participation |
Political Education & Anti-Racism Videos |
Dublin |
|
NWICDP CLG |
Let’s Gather |
Dublin |
|
Saoirse Housing Association CLG |
Liberty - Inclusion - Voice - Empowerment (LIVE) |
Dublin |
|
Serve the City Ireland CLG |
Connecting Communities |
Dublin |
|
Social Space Ireland |
Our Stories, Our Voices: A Youth Media Project by SSI |
Dublin |
|
The Mendicity Institution |
Training for Employment for International Protection Applicants |
Dublin |
|
Galway Traveller Movement |
Galway Communities Against Racism and Discrimination - Collective Action For Change |
Galway |
|
Portlaoise Educate Together NS |
Being Together - A shared journey to racial equality in our school! Let's stand up together against racism! |
Laois |
|
Ethnic Minority hub |
One Community |
Longford |
|
Longford Africans Network |
Culture Champions Training & Development Program |
Longford |
|
Kinaffe NS |
Inclusion - In the heart of our school and community |
Mayo |
The International Protection Integration Fund (IPIF) has a goal to support communities across Ireland so they can play a greater role in promoting the integration of International Protection applicants. Annually, a total starting at €500,000 is made available to community-based organisations to carry out integration projects at a national, provincial or local level. Grants ranging from €5,000 to €20,000 are made available to successful organisations. This year 70 projects are set to receive €1,200,776 in funding. Organisations eligible to apply include local community groups, charities, faith-based groups, schools and cultural organisations. Applicant organisations must operate on a not-for-profit basis. See the below table of successful organisations from the 2023 funding call.
|
Name of organisation: |
Project Name: |
Geographical Scope: |
|
Amber Womens Refuge CLG |
One Million Stars Ireland Community Arts Project |
Carlow, Dublin, Kerry, Kilkenny, Longford, Meath, Offally and Waterford |
|
Clare Immigrant Support Centre |
Support and Outreach to IPAs |
Clare |
|
ADAPT Domestic Abuse Services |
ADAPTing for Wellness - Improving psychosocial support for female International Protection applicants |
Clare and Limerick |
|
Midwest Migrant Community Network (MMCN) |
Migrant Women Health and Wellbeing |
Clare, Limerick and Tipperary |
|
IRD Duhallow CLG |
Duhallow Youth Integration Project |
Cork |
|
Life FM Radio |
Integration through Media |
Cork |
|
Macroom Family Resource Centre |
Migrant Supports Macroom |
Cork |
|
Depaul Ireland |
‘Supporting Persons engaged in International Protection Accomodation Services to Integrate into Local Communities’ |
Cork, Dublin and Mayo |
|
Donegal Intercultural Platform CLG |
Pathways to Inclusion Project (Pathways 2) |
Donegal |
|
Donegal Youth Service |
Include Us |
Donegal |
|
Lifford Celtic FC |
Welcome to Lifford |
Donegal |
|
Lifford Clonleigh resource Centre |
Community Transport for Lifford |
Donegal |
|
ACET Ireland |
Migrant Plus - Catalysing Mental Health supports through partnership. |
Dublin |
|
Basketball Ireland |
Urban Hoops |
Dublin |
|
Cairde |
Mental Health Promotion and Wellbeing Project for Women |
Dublin |
|
Dublin City University |
Irish Refugee Integration Network |
Dublin |
|
Dublin Northwest Partnership |
Level Up |
Dublin |
|
Early Learning Initiative, National College of Ireland |
Talking Heads |
Dublin |
|
Empower Local Development CLG |
Asylum-seeker Refugee Employment Support (ARES) |
Dublin |
|
Merchants Quay Ireland |
IPAs Support Worker part/time |
Dublin |
|
Mother Tongues |
Integrating well-being and art practices to develop a sense of belonging |
Dublin |
|
Muslim Sisters Of Eire |
Project 1: Positive Parenting |
Dublin |
|
Africa Solidarity Centre CLG |
Facilitating International Protection Applicants' Understanding of the Asylum Process Through the Provision of Legal Information and Host Activities Supporting their Integration. |
Dublin, Cork, Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick, Longford and Waterford |
|
Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Ireland |
Integrate Day 1 Project |
Dublin, Galway, Limerick and Mayo |
|
Croi na Gaillimhe a Resource Centre of St Vincent de Paul |
Swimming and Soccer for Children in DP |
Galway |
|
Galway City Partnership |
Art Bridge: Building Connections Through Creativity |
Galway |
|
County Kilkenny LEADER Partnership CLG |
IPA Employability and Training |
Kilkenny |
|
GARRYOWEN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECT CLG |
Parent Child Plus - supporting integration of young children through learning and language development |
Limerick |
|
Limerick Youth Service |
Lava Javas Diversity and Youth Group (DAY) |
Limerick |
|
LUS NA GRÉINE FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE CLG |
North Longford Intercultural Fusion Initiative - Promoting Intercultural Awareness |
Longford |
|
Ait na nDaoine Cuideachta Faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta |
Solidarity Through Sport |
Louth |
|
Ait na nDaoine Cuideachta Faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta |
Preparing for Work in Ireland |
Louth |
|
Ait na nDaoine Cuideachta Faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta |
Health and Wellbeing through Creativeness across diversity |
Louth |
|
Culture Connect CLG |
INTEGRATION MADE EASY PHASE 2 |
Louth and Meath |
|
Development Perspectives |
Freedom Football |
Louth and Meath |
|
Cultur Migrants Centre |
Community Connect Project |
Louth, Meath and Monaghan |
|
AdVIC |
Wellbeing and Mental Health |
Nationwide |
|
Doras |
Blended Online and In-Person Language Courses for International Protection Applicants |
Nationwide |
|
Irish Refugee Council |
Information, advice and representation of people seeking international protection |
Nationwide |
|
LGBT Ireland |
Rainbow Refugees Making Ireland Home |
Nationwide |
|
Diversity Sligo |
Health information |
Sligo |
|
Lismore for All |
Lismore Sport for All |
Waterford |
|
Bray Area Partnership |
Bray and North Wicklow Fáilte Isteach Project |
Wicklow |
|
Project 2: Summer project |
||
|
Project 3: Women and youth wellbeing |
||
|
Project 4: Youth support |
||
|
MyMind CLG |
Outreach counselling service for IPA's |
Nationwide |
|
National Youth Council of Ireland |
Coordinating a community of practice network to support young IP applicants to engage in youth work |
Nationwide |
|
New Horizon - Athlone Refugee & Asylum Seeker Support Group |
Integration Support Worker |
Westmeath |
|
NEWKD |
The integration sports hub |
Kerry |
|
Northside Family Resource Centre CLG |
Knockalisheen Direct Provision Centre Children's Integration Project |
Limerick |
|
Northside Partnership |
Supporting community integration in North East Dublin |
Dublin |
|
Outhouse Limited |
Safe Space |
Nationwide |
|
Places of Sanctuary Ireland |
Sanctuary Ambassadors in Schools and Communities |
Nationwide |
|
Riverchapel Community Complex |
International Sanctuary football Team |
Wexford |
|
Serve the City Ireland CLG |
Partnering in Ireland in 2023 |
Dublin |
|
Sligo Family Resource Centre |
Sligo FRC Integration Project |
Sligo |
|
SOPHIA COUNSELLING CENTRE |
Provision of counselling services and low cost or no cost to International Protection applicants. Establishment of a Trauma Informed Support or therapy Group for victims of gendered violence. Establishment of a Trauma Informed Support or Therapy Group for those traumatised through trafficking, displacement, or experience of war, intimidation, persecution, or traumatic bereavement and loss. Series of talks on culturally sensitive topics such as antenatal, perinatal and postnatal mental health; parenting teenagers who are integrating into Irish culture, etc |
Kildare and Wicklow |
|
Spirasi |
Spirasi Horticulture Project |
Dublin |
|
St. Canices Community Action |
(SIPA) Support for International Protection Applicants |
Kilkenny |
|
Teach Na nDaoine Family Resource Centre |
Teachnadaoine integration support project |
Monaghan |
|
Termonfeckin Welcomes Group |
Tús Nua (New Beginning) |
Louth, Meath and Monaghan |
|
The Ark |
The Ark for Everyone |
Dublin |
|
The Bike Hub |
UpCyclers |
Dublin |
|
The Exchange Inishowen |
Supporting New Arrivals |
Donegal |
|
The Kildare Local Area Employment Service |
Employment Options |
Kildare |
|
The Sanctuary Runners CLG |
Removing Barriers to Participation |
Dublin, Kildare, Louth, Meath and Wicklow |
|
The SCOOP Foundation |
SCOOP Play Therapy |
Donegal and Dublin |
|
Third Age |
Fáilte Isteach |
Nationwide |
|
Twilight Community Group |
Health & Overall Wellness (HOW) |
Carlow and Kilkenny |
|
Waterford Area Partnership |
Mukisa Programme |
Waterford |
|
Waterford Integration Services |
"Active Minds" an Integration Programme for improved mental health and wellbeing. |
Carlow, Kilkenny, Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford |
|
Work Equal |
Whole School IPA Community Pilot Workshops on Intercultural Awareness Mayo - Pilot 1 |
Mayo |
The International Decade for People of African Descent (IDPAD) Funding Call was a once off funding call held this year to provide funding to support community organisations hosting local, regional and national events to mark and celebrate the Decade. The IDPAD has been planned by the Department in celebration of the ‘International Decade for People of African Descent’, effective through 2015-2024 under resolution 68/237 of the UN General Assembly. A table of the successful projects can be seen below, for this once off fund.
|
Name of organisation: |
Name of Event: |
County: |
|
Glencree & AISW (Africa Irish Society of Wicklow) |
The Other Side of Us |
Wicklow |
|
The Association of Mixed Race Irish, C/O EUROPEAN NETWORK AGAINST RACISM (ENAR) IRELAND LIMITED |
The Search for African Identities - screening of "The Search" and panel discussion |
Dublin |
|
Umoja linn |
Umoja linn African Christmas Market |
Offaly |
|
AFRO IN DIASPORA CENTER |
The Future: Illuminating Africa’s Past, Present & Future Through History, Art, Culture, and Education |
Cavan |
|
Akina dada wa Africa Limited (AkiDwA) |
Afro Art Festival |
Dublin |
|
CAD AID FOUNDATION |
"EmpowerHer: Breaking Barriers, Celebrating Diversity" |
Dublin |
|
Children 4 World Children (C4WC) |
Waka Waka Africa…. Celebrating & Sustaining African Culture & Heritage |
Dublin |
|
Cork Migrant Centre, Nano Nagle Place |
'Disentangled' |
Cork |
|
Phase Innovate |
Miss Tech Africa: Empowering Young Women in Technology and Community Development |
Louth |
|
Sickle Cell Society Ireland |
Research Project exploring the daily living experiences of people with sickle cell, and impact on education, employment. |
Dublin |
|
GORM |
Film in Colour |
Dublin |
|
Create |
Eascair - a Black Irish renaissance |
Dublin |
|
Festival in a Van CLG |
Rhythms of Africa |
Dublin |
|
Galway One World Centre (GOWC) |
Arts event: 'AFRICA, MOTHER OF ALL' |
Galway |
|
Muslim Sisters of Eire |
Multiculture Day Celabrating Africa |
Dublin |
|
Aremoja Women's Group Sligo |
An African Experience |
Sligo |
|
Axis Ballymun |
Mixed Race Irish Day - Recognition and Celebration |
Dublin |
|
Cultures Meet Ireland |
"Harmony Fest: Celebrating Diversity and Unity in Ireland" |
Dublin |
|
Early Learning Initiative |
Play event celebrating African music, storytelling and culture. |
Dublin |
|
HergenuityAfrika CLG |
HGA Entrepreneurs Summit and Awards 2023 |
Waterford |
|
INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF AFRICAN STUDIES IRELAND (IIASI) |
UNDERSTANDING & SHARING CONTEMPORARY AFRICAN CULTURES IN IRELAND THROUGH ARTIFACTS & PHOTOGRAPHS: An Art Exhibition and African cultural diversity workshop series |
Dublin |
|
Live Art Ireland |
EXPRESS: An Artist Residency and Community Engagement programme focussed on and involving People of African Descent. |
Tipperary |
|
ACET Ireland |
Recognising African perspectives on health |
Dublin |
|
Amdalah Africa Foundation - AMDAF |
Decade Culture Cafe |
Galway |
|
Dublin South City Partnership CLG |
Positive Contribution of African Descents in Ireland |
Dublin |
|
Ait na nDaoine |
Dundalk community celebrating culture and heritage of People of African Descent |
Louth |
|
Black History Month Ireland |
Launch of Black History Month 2023 |
Dublin |
|
Insaka Ireland All Africa Youth Movement |
Beyond The Human Zoo |
Dublin |
|
Motivalogic Academy |
African In Tech Career Day 2023 |
Dublin |
|
Rather Gather |
RATHER GATHER IN AFRICA CULTURE |
Dublin |
|
The Africa-Irish Development Initiative (AIDI) Limited |
Black / Africa History Month Ireland Celebrations |
Dublin |
|
The Bold Woman Association |
DIVERSITY IN CULTURE |
Dublin |
|
University of Galway Students Union |
Africa Appreciation week |
Galway |
|
Vision Community Support Services (VCSS) |
African Irish Youths Exhibition and Fashion show |
Cork |
|
Irish Institute of Music and Song |
KUTRIKUKU ARTS EVENTS |
Dublin |
In 2022, my Department launched a Call for Proposals under the Integration and Employment of Migrants stream of the European Social Fund Plus 2021-2027 Programme, as part of Ireland’s ‘Employment, Inclusion, Skills and Training’ (EIST) Programme. The Call for Proposals was for a total fund of €2.7m and was seeking 3-year projects to support eligible migrants to secure employment. The table of successful applicants and their locations is set out below:
|
Name of organisation: |
Name of Project: |
County: |
|
Doras |
Gateway to Employment for Third Country Nationals |
Nationwide |
|
Network Personnel |
MORE (Migrant Opportunities for Re-skilling and Employment) |
Monaghan/Cavan |
|
Cultúr Celebrating Diversity |
Career Fasttrack Programme |
Meath, Louth, Cavan, Monaghan |
|
People 1st |
MEAS (Migrant Employment, Advice & Support) |
Donegal |
|
Pathways to Progress |
Building Migrant Employment and Integration Prospects |
Nationwide |
|
Waterford Area Partnership |
Waterford EIST Listening to Migrants |
Waterford and South East |
|
Business in the Community Ireland |
EPIC Programme |
Nationwide |
In 2022, My Department launched a closed Call for Proposals under the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) among organisations which had been approved funding under the 2019 AMIF Call for Proposals. The context was that many front-line organisations providing supports to migrants were experiencing a substantial increase in demand arising from the influx of Ukrainian Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection. Total grants awarded under this Call for Proposals amounted to €2.8m and the funding is designed to support these organisations and ensure that appropriate services are delivered as required. The €2.8m included €2.1m from the AMIF Programme, and the balance is National Funding. The Table below sets out the successful applicants and their locations.
|
Name of organisation: |
Name of Project: |
County: |
|
NASC |
Connecting Communities II |
Cork, Kerry, Waterford |
|
Crosscare |
Promoting positive outcomes for migrants: an integration and partnerships model |
Dublin & Surrounds |
|
Irish Traveller Movement |
The YellowFlag Programme |
Nationwide |
|
Spirasi |
Provision of holistic rehabilitation supports that are accessible and timely. |
Nationwide |
|
Marino Institute of Education |
Migrant Teacher Project |
Nationwide |
|
KASI |
Reception of Asylum Seekers and Integration of Refugees (including Ukrainian Refugees) and TCNs |
Co. Kerry |
|
Cultur Migrant Centre |
Social Connection and Inclusion Project |
Meath & Louth |
|
Co. Kildare Leader Partnership |
Kildare Integration Project |
Co.Kildare |
|
South West Mayo Dev Co. |
Welcoming and Including New Communities Mayo (WIN) 2022-2023 |
Co. Mayo |
|
Clare Immigrant Support Centre |
Clare Immigrant Support Centre |
Co. Clare |
|
Immigrant Council of Ireland |
Supporting the Integration of Ukrainians in Ireland |
National |
|
Waterford Area Partnership |
MUKISA |
Co. Waterford, then nationwide |
|
North, East, West Kerry Developments |
Social Enterprise Migrant Integration Project |
North, East, West Kerry |
|
Galway City Partnership |
Bridge 2 |
Co. Galway |
In addition to the above, on 20th of October 2023, My Department launched a Call for Proposals under the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) in the amount of €10m, to fund 4-year projects providing Reception and Integration supports to third country nationals. The closing date for applicants is 12:00 noon on Friday 1st December 2023.
1039. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the number of children currently in foster or other care in State or private institutions; the extent to which these numbers have fluctuated in the past six years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48140/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs this relates to Tusla operational matters, the question has been forwarded to Tusla for direct reply to the Deputy.
1040. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the extent to which adequate reporting facilities are available in respect of children at risk; if augmentation of such services is required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48141/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraStatutory and operational responsibility for the delivery of child protection and welfare services is a matter for Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. The Deputy is seeking information in relation to an operational matter for Tusla. Consequently, I have referred the matter to Tusla, and requested that a direct response be provided to the Deputy.
1041. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the extent to which he remains satisfied that adequate counselling, support and rescue services remain available through his Department to meet the requirements of at-risk children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48142/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, statutory and operational responsibility for the delivery of child protection services is a matter for Tusla, the Child and Family Agency.
Tusla’s response to concerns about the welfare and protection of children is guided by the principles of Children First; the overall aim in all dealings with children and their families is to intervene proportionately to support families to keep their children safe from harm. Tusla's approach to practice is to build on the family’s strengths utilising their own naturally connected family and community supports with the professional supports and services Tusla offer, which include family support services including parenting supports, mental health, therapeutic supports and other supports for children and families.
1042. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will arrange an early appointment with CAMHS for a child (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48183/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs this question refers to service matters, I have asked the Health Service Executive (HSE) to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible. As the Deputy may be aware, the industrial action that commenced on Friday 6th October, by management and administrative grades in Fórsa Trade Union in the HSE, will impact on the response times to Parliamentary Questions and Representations.
1044. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will provide an update on the case of a person (details supplied). [48196/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs this question refers to service matters, I have asked the Health Service Executive (HSE) to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible. As the Deputy may be aware, the industrial action that commenced on Friday 6th October, by management and administrative grades in Fórsa Trade Union in the HSE, will impact on the response times to Parliamentary Questions and Representations.
1045. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth whether his Department was consulted as part of the Department of Social Protection’s work on the green paper on disability allowances; to detail the level of involvement of his Department in the construction of said green paper; if he has been in contact with the Department of Social Protection in relation to the green papers proposed tiered disability allowance system since the publication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48204/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Social Protection has recently published a Green Paper on Reform of Disability Payments, and has commenced a public consultation process on the proposals contained in same. The Green Paper proposes the reform and restructuring of disability payments in response to key public policy commitments under the Roadmap for Social Inclusion, Pathways to Work and the Make Work Pay report.
My Department was not involved in the production of the Green Paper. However, prior to the launch of public consultation, both Minister O'Gorman and I, and our officials, were briefed on the content of the Green Paper.
Article 28 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), ratified by Ireland in 2018, places an imperative on the State to "ensure access by persons with disabilities, in particular women and girls with disabilities and older persons with disabilities, to social protection programmes and poverty reduction programmes".
It is in this context that I welcome the fact that the Department of Social Protection are undertaking reforms in this area. I know from engagement with disabled people and Disabled Persons' Organisations that there are aspects of our social protection system that can be changed to better serve the needs of disabled people.
1046. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if adults in residential care settings are eligible for personalised budgets as introduced by the HSE in 2018, wherein an individual may receive direct funding to manage their own support needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48215/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra1047. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth under what circumstances would an adult in residential care be considered for a personalised budget, particularly in light of the potential loss of social outlets upon leaving school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48216/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra1048. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth whether personalised budgets can be utilised for service provisions outside of HSE-funded providers, such as day trips, to address concerns about preserving autonomy and individuality for those in residential care settings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48217/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1046, 1047 and 1048 together.
The Personalised Budget pilot demonstrator Project is open to adults with a disability who are currently in receipt of HSE funded services across a broad spectrum of services, including day services, residential services and respite services. It provides participants with more control in accessing health funded personal social services, giving each participant on the Pilot Personalised Budget Project greater independence and choice in accessing services that best meet their individual needs.
The Personalised Budget pilot demonstrator Project is currently in its demonstration phase and the HSE National Service Plan for 2023 targets up to 180 participants in the project.
Latest information from the HSE indicates that there are 114 active participants on the Personalised Budget pilot Demonstrator project, with 26 people currently participating in the final stage 4 of the pilot, the “Living Life Phase”.
An extension to the demonstrator project was granted by Minister of State Anne Rabbitte, to Q3 2023. This extension will facilitate suitable applicant participation and allow time for a robust evaluation of the demonstrator project to be commenced.
