Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 48: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of recommendations of the task force on emigrants that have been implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26902/05]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The excellent report of the task force on policy regarding emigrants provides us with a valuable framework for action. Many of its recommendations require sustained action over time from all partners in both Government and the voluntary sector. However, considerable progress continues to be made, with action under way on more than two thirds of the report's recommendations. Most importantly, the establishment of a dedicated unit — the Irish abroad unit — in the Department of Foreign Affairs is driving progress on the areas identified by the task force.

Funding for emigrant services has also increased very substantially. This year the allocation is more than eight times greater than in 1997. In all, grants in 2005 will amount to €8.273 million, representing a 63% increase on last year. In this regard, I have recently announced significant increases to groups in Britain, the US and Ireland. A particular priority is the need to support our most vulnerable and marginalised communities abroad, such as our older community in Britain and undocumented Irish people in the United States. Agencies involved at the front line in this critical work are receiving substantial additional funding this year. These agencies are also involved in the provision of pre-departure services and in assistance to emigrants wishing to return to Ireland, both areas particularly identified by the task force.

My Department will continue to maintain close and active contact with frontline organisations to ensure the voluntary sector has an effective channel of communication with the Government and that everything possible is done to help and advance the interests of our emigrant communities, their most vulnerable members in particular.