Minister Joe O’Brien visits Rosslare Europort and Danby Lodge Hotel, Co Wexford
· Approximately 8% of Ukrainian arrivals to Ireland have been welcomed at Rosslare Europort
· Community response initiated with volunteer groups, local and National Government and Harbour Master
· Ukrainians receiving emergency, flexible and responsive humanitarian relief
Mr. Joe O’Brien TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, today (Wednesday, 13 April 2022) visited Rosslare Europort and the reception centre which was set up to welcome and provide essential supports for Ukrainians fleeing the war.
The Community response in Rosslare involves volunteer groups working with the Local Authority, Government Departments, the Harbour Master and a range of state agencies.
‘Rosslare Harbour Friends of Ukraine’ and local volunteer groups have assisted with a free shop on arrival, providing donated supplies and assisting with community integration by offering accommodation and resettlement supports for Ukrainian nationals.
As part of the visit, the Minister met with a number of Ukrainians who are currently being accommodated in Danby Lodge. They shared their lived experience of their journey to Ireland and the welcome they received upon arriving in Wexford.
Minister O’Brien said:
“I am happy to meet with the volunteers who are giving of their time and providing valuable supports to many families fleeing from their war torn country.
“It is evident that the responses which the community have provided are flexible, immediate, and underpinned by respect for human rights and an understanding of the trauma experienced by the Ukrainians.
“The goodwill that has been provided to these families and the welcome they have received from the communities is something that needs to be acknowledged and commended.
“My Department provides funding for the Social Inclusion & Community Activation Programme (SICAP) which is our Country’s primary social inclusion tool. SICAP staff, working within Local Development Companies have valuable experience and knowledge of available resources in their areas to support those arriving into Ireland seeking support and assistance.
“Flexibility is being offered by the Department in relation to SICAP so that its some 600 community development workers can contribute locally in responding to the needs of the Ukrainians as they are accommodated around the country.
“I want to commend everybody here today for the welcoming community spirit they have provided and continue to provide for the Ukrainian families during such a traumatic time in their lives”.