Dominic Hannigan (Meath East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

173. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of participants from Ireland who have undertaken European voluntary service in another European Union member state; and the number of persons from other European Union member states who have undertaken European voluntary service here in the years 2012, 2013 and 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10831/15]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The European Voluntary Service gives young people, in the age group 17-30 years, the opportunity to express their personal commitment through full-time voluntary service, living and working in communities in a foreign country within or outside the EU.

The European Voluntary Service aims to develop solidarity, mutual understanding and tolerance among young people, while contributing to strengthening social cohesion and promoting active citizenship. Placements can last between 2 and 12 months, but young people with fewer opportunities can be supported to carry out voluntary service on a short-term basis from 2 weeks upwards. The programme was funded under the EU Youth In Action programme up to 2013 and is currently funded under the EU ERASMUS+ programme ( 2014-2020 ). The programme is administered on behalf of my Department by Léargas- the Exchange Bureau.

I am advised by Léargas that in 2012, Ireland hosted 94 volunteers from the EU partner countries and 45 young volunteers from Ireland were hosted by communities and projects across Europe. In 2013, Ireland hosted 129 volunteers and 59 volunteers travelled abroad and in 2014, the figures were 124 and 25 respectively.