Damien English (Meath, Fine Gael)
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Question 105: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the level of funding allocated to supporting groups working with Irish emigrants in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19579/06]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The strong commitment of the Government to support our community abroad is reflected in the unprecedented level of funding secured for emigrant services. This year, €12 million is available for this purpose which represents an increase of 45% on 2005 and is twelve-times greater than the 1997 allocation.

The needs of the Irish community in Britain are a particular priority for the Government. In 2005, groups in Britain received grants from my Department amounting to €7.06 million. The very significant increase in funding and the rise in the number of grant recipients reflect, in the clearest possible way, the strength of the Government's firm and sustained commitment to our community in Britain.

While the primary emphasis of funding continues to be on supporting frontline welfare services, I am pleased that additional funding has also made it possible to support a number of capital projects as well as projects which support our community in Britain in their wish to express their Irish identity. With regard to funding this year, applications from groups in Britain are currently under consideration and I look forward to making an announcement in due course.