Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 111: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if funding is available from him for a specific purpose (details supplied). [6399/12]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Emigrant Support Programme, administered by my Department, provides funding to non-profit organisations and projects to support Irish communities overseas and to facilitate the development of more strategic links between Ireland and the global Irish. The strong emphasis of the Programme is on supporting culturally sensitive, frontline welfare services, which are targeted at the most vulnerable members of our overseas communities, including the elderly and homeless. These services have made a substantive difference to the lives of Irish people living abroad, particularly in Britain and the United States, through reducing homelessness, tackling social isolation, and enabling Irish emigrants to access their local, statutory entitlements.

Thanks to Irish Government support, all the major urban areas in Britain with substantial Irish populations have dedicated, professional, Irish welfare organisations that provide support and assistance for elderly Irish people, including with end of life issues.

Where an Irish citizen who is resident abroad dies my Department through our Embassies or Consulates will offer consular assistance with regard to the repatriation of the remains if it is requested. The assistance can involve contacts with local authorities/ undertakers etc and liaison with family members here in Ireland. My Department does not have funds available to assist with the financial cost involved in the repatriation of remains.