Four programmes operating in Galway for the integration of refugees into the community have been awarded funding.
Minister of State Joe O’Brien has announced €1.2 million in funding to 70 not-for-profit, civil society organisations for International Protection support based projects.
Galway City Partnership has been awarded €16,000 for its ‘Art Bridge: Building Connections Through Creativity’, and Croà na Gaillimhe will get €5,000 for their ‘Swimming and Soccer for Children in DP’.
Africa Solidarity Centre CLG has been awarded the maximum of €20,000 to help asylum seekers understand the legal process, and to host activities supporting their integration.
Another €20,000 will go to the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Ireland for their ‘Integrate Day 1 Project’.
This is the second year of the International Protection Integration Fund, which supports chapter 5.2.2 of the commitments within A White Paper to End Direct Provision and Establish a New International Protection Support Service.
“The International Protection Integration Fund is a significant tool to assist civil society organisations with their invaluable work on helping to integrate people who come to Ireland seeking International Protection,” Minister O’Brien said.
“The importance of this work with people who are at a particularly vulnerable time in their lives is crucial and every day we see the positive impact that civil society organisations make in helping to foster diverse and vibrant communities whilst supporting individuals.”
“I am delighted to be able to award funding today to 70 different projects across Ireland for the development of such vital work.’’
