Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 501: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No.175 of 10 April 2008, the plans he has to extend the deadline for the asylum seeker supports small grant scheme; the alternative funding options in place and available for organisations seeking to integrate and support asylum seekers into the community; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14833/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

As stated in Parliamentary Question No. 175 of 10 April 2008, funding is available from the Vote of the Office of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform through the 'Asylum Seeker Supports Small Grant Scheme' details of which are available on the website of the Reception and Integration Agency (www.ria.gov.ie). This scheme provides funding to locally-based organisations which befriend, support and involve asylum seekers living in direct provision in the local community. The aim of the scheme is to promote interaction between asylum seekers and the local communities through providing supports for intercultural events and activities.

I can confirm that the closing date for the current small grants scheme was 29 February 2008. 55 applications for funding were received which are currently being assessed. The organisations involved will be notified in due course. There are no plans to extend the deadline for this scheme and no other formal funding scheme is available through the Reception and Integration Agency.