The SDLP Group Leader on Newry, Mourne & Down Council has welcomed a commitment from the Office of the First and Deputy First Minister to ensure arrangements are in place for those caught up in the migrant refugees issue that is taking place across Europe at the present time.
Commenting, the Downpatrick Councillor said: “We have all witnessed the harrowing scenes on TV news bulletins of people having to give up everything – leaving family, property and their lives behind to scramble for safety.
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Councillor Colin McGrath welcomes NI support to the Syrian refugees.[/caption]
“All too often we have witnessed too those that didnt make it – often drowning in the perilous seas as they made their escape to peace and freedom.
“Many people contacted the SDLP team and we have supported motions in council, been involved with the local community efforts to gather resources and medical aid and have it dispatched to those who need it and encouraged our government, as it is, to do what it could do.
“In the response issued to me from the First & Deputy First Ministers they state that they are aware that this is one of the greatest challenges facing countries across europe today.
“I am assured too that significant cross-departmental work has begun to ensure this all happens smoothly. I welcome this commitment from OFMDFM and hope that we can play our part and help those most in need at this time.”
Committee Welcomes Plans To Aid Refugees
The Northern Ireland Assembly Committee for the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister has received a briefing from Departmental officials outlining the Executive’s response to the current global refugee and asylum crisis.
Speaking after the meeting, Committee Chairperson Mike Nesbitt MLA, said: “The Committee recognises the enormity of the current humanitarian challenge both at the borders of Europe and globally across areas of severe conflict. Members were pleased to receive a briefing from OFMDFM officials outlining the NI Executive’s plans to participate in the UK Government’s Vulnerable Persons Relocation Scheme, which aims to support the most vulnerable individuals.
“We were pleased to hear proposals to welcome between 50-100 refugees to Northern Ireland by December, with further groups due on a phased basis. We were also informed that a Strategic Planning Group led by OFMDFM, and an Operational Group led by the Department of Social Development are co-ordinating this response.”
Deputy Chairperson Chris Lyttle MLA added: “The First Minister and Deputy First Minister have indicated that there is a strong case for the development of a Refugee Integration Strategy. We also note that the Executive has been engaging with experienced non-governmental organisations to understand the experience of refugees and asylum seekers, and the Committee looks forward to hearing from some of these groups in early November.
“This is an important issue and it is vital that Executive departments, local government and non-governmental organisations work together to get it right for refugees, and also for local communities here. As a Committee we will continue to monitor OFMDFM’s response to the humanitarian crisis and will call for further action if needed.”
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