O'Gorman announces almost €3m funding for migrant employment supports

Grants providing employment supports for migrants worth almost €3 million have been announced by the government. 

The grants - totalling €2.7 million - were announced yesterday (November 25) by the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O'Gorman. 

Seven projects will be delivered by Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) over a three year period in multiple locations across Ireland. 

The projects were chosen following an open call and will provide a range of practical supports directly to migrants. 

Speaking about the initiative, Minister O'Gorman said, "Seven projects will be funded across the country to help support the integration of our new communities, specifically aimed at boosting migrant employability. These grants will bolster the good work being carried out every day by local community organisations and national NGOs in support of migrant integration.”

Supports primarily aim to improve migrants' employability and will include English language classes and workplace training. 

Projects selected for funding include a Dublin-based project with extensive links with major employers which will provide support in CV preparation, interview skills, and delivering practical work experience through paid internships, while supporting employers in recruiting and retaining migrant staff. 

Also included is a project based in Donegal providing individual action plans for participants, addressing educational, training and motivational needs, as well as working with employers to highlight the business advantages of a diverse workforce. 

The projects will be funded under the European Social Fund Plus. 

Selected applicants include Business in the Community, Cultúr Celebrating Diversity Ltd, Doras, Network Personnel, Pathways to Progress, People 1st, and Waterford Area Partnership. 

The largest single funding amount has been allocated to Business in the Community (€623,028.24), followed by €450,000 for Cultúr Celebrating Diversity Ltd. 

Waterford Area Partnership has been allocated €248,430.99, while Doras and Network Personnel have each received €261,104.24 and €272,242.73 respectively.