Future assured for two intercultural centres
By Maurice Garvey
FUNDING has been agreed to keep two intercultural centres in Tallaght and Clondalkin afloat.
The centres were facing an uncertain future over the last number of months, due to the withdrawal of Department of Justice funding under a new programme.
Funding has been agreed for the Tallaght Intercultural Centre
This led to negotiations between South Dublin County Partnership (SDCP) and the department.
SDCP has now signed a two-year service-level agreement with the Department of Justice to fund the retention of the two centres.
TD Frances Fitzgerald welcomed “certainty regarding the funding of the two centres”.
“When their CEO Larry O’Neill contacted me about this I made representations to my colleague, Minister with responsibility for immigration and integration, David Stanton. David listened to the case made by the partnership and the centres which ultimately led to this agreement being signed.”
Deputy Fitzgerald said the agreement will see the department fund the “vast majority” of the costs associated with the centres with SDCP meeting additional “needs that arise”.
“This will ensure that both Clondalkin and Tallaght centres will operate five days a week,” she said.
“The Intercultural Centre in Clondalkin acts as a link for migrants as well as promoting integration and celebrating the culture of all residents in Clondalkin.
“I would like to pay tribute to the work of the centre staff and volunteers and the dedication of SDCP to ensuring the needs of minority groups are met. I look forward to seeing the progress of the centres and wish them every success with the work ahead.”
