€1.2m boost for International Protection support projects in Limerick

OVER €1.2m has been allocated to dozens of not-for-profit organisations including a number in Limerick, it has been announced.

Now in its second year, the International Protection Integration Fund helps enable community-based organisations in Limerick and across Ireland to play a greater role in supporting the integration of International Protection applicants at local and national levels.

A total of 70 organisations, including three in Limerick, are to receive funding this year, Minister of State Joe O’Brien for Community Development, Integration and Charities has announced.

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The three Limerick-based organisations to receive funding are: Garryowen Community Development Project CLG Parent Child Plus (€19,949), Limerick Youth Service Lava Javas Diversity and Youth Group (€20,000) and Northside Family Resource Centre CLG for their Knockalisheen Direct Provision Centre Children's Integration Project (€20,000).

A number of other organisations which have been allocated funding have a presence in Limerick as well as elsewhere.

These include: ADAPT Domestic Abuse Services, Africa Solidarity Centre CLG, Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Ireland and Midwest Migrant Community Network.

Under the scheme, successful applicants were asked to demonstrate how their proposed project will build links between International Protection applicants and their host communities, encouraging meaningful integration that benefits the community as a whole.

“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,” commented Mr O'Brien at the funding announcement.