Ireland to offer safe haven for 4,000 refugees – Conway

Fine Gael Clare Senator and Seanad Spokesperson on Justice, Disability and Equality, Martin Conway, has welcomed the announcement that Ireland will accept up to 4,000 people, under resettlement and relocation programmes, announced by the Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald TD.

“I am satisfied that the Government has agreed to establish an ‘Irish Refugee Protection Programme’ to provide safe haven for persons seeking international protection.

“I had previously called on the Government to act in relation to the migration crisis facing Europe and to address the humanitarian needs of these unfortunate people.

“Integration is a vital component of the resettlement process, as are the provisions that are being put in place to provide for the plight of unaccompanied minors.

“It is particularly important that the Department of Justice and Equality will work with the Department of Education and Skills, relevant agencies and NGO’s to put in place appropriate integration measures for the refugees, including the provision of English language training and community socialisation programmes.

“I look forward to debating the International Protection Bill in the Seanad shortly, which will streamline and expedite the applications for protection status for these refugees.”