Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 153: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps which have been taken to ensure the safe return of Irish expatriates who wish to return home. [34303/08]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

According to Central Statistics Office estimates, approximately 16,200 Irish emigrants returned to live in Ireland in the past year, bringing the total number of returned emigrants since 2003 to over 107,000.

As the Deputy will be aware, the vast majority of returning emigrants do not request State assistance in making arrangements for their return. However, some returning emigrants do require support and, in this context, my Department allocates financial support to frontline welfare organisations which assist such people.

My Department has provided funding to two organisations working specifically in this area, the Safe Home Programme and the Crosscare Migrant Project. The award of a €249,900 grant in April of this year brought the Department's total funding for Safe Home since 2005 to over €900,000. I have also approved funding of €159,000 this year to support the Crosscare Migrant Project, bringing the total Emigrant Support funding awarded to the organisation since 2005 to €475,000. This substantial funding is testament to the high value which the Government places on their work. The Government remains committed to supporting frontline welfare agencies and organisations.

In addition, our network of Missions overseas are happy to advise Irish citizens who contact them seeking information on returning to live in Ireland.