Louth projects get funding to help integration of International Protection Applicants

A number of projects in Louth are to receive funding under the International Protection Integration Fund 2023, to assist in the integration of International Protection Applicants.

The Minister of State for Community Development, Integration and Charities, Joe O’Brien, has announced the 70 projects nationwide set to receive €1,200,776 in funding under the International Protection Integration Fund 2023. 

The Fund helps enable community based organisations across Ireland to play a greater role in supporting the integration of International Protection applicants at local and national level.

Ait na nDaoine Cuideachta Faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta is to receive funding for the following projects in Louth:

• Solidarity Through Sport - €15,186
• Preparing for Work in Ireland - €15,186
• Health and Wellbeing through Creativeness across diversity - €19,924

The Cultur Migrants Centre is to receive €20,000 for its Community Connect Project in Louth, Monaghan and Meath.

Culture Connect CLG is to receive €20,000 for its project, INTEGRATION MADE EASY PHASE 2, in Louth and Meath.

Development Perspectives is to receive €18,680 for its project Freedom Football, in Louth and Meath.

The International Protection Integration Fund, now in its second year, supports chapter 5.2.2 of the commitments within A White Paper to End Direct Provision and Establish a New International Protection Support Service. In the white paper, the Government committed to developing a community integration fund for International Protection applicants.

Welcoming the announcement, Minister O’Brien said: “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.

"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.’’