The Government is to provide €5 million for anti-racism measures and projects to help integrate immigrants to the State.
The funding will be managed by the Reception and Integration Agency of the Department of Justice. It includes €2.8 million for NGOs and local partnerships and €1.14 million for the National Action Plan against Racism.
Minister for Justice Michael McDowell said the fund would provide assistance in employment, language, sport and community activities.
"We must move as quickly as possible on our broad integration agenda for the years ahead. We continue to make good progress with our anti-racist plans, but we need to develop and fund broad integration strategies and measures," he said.
"Real integration takes place at local level and that is why this money is being directed to help those working at the frontline in this important area."
Mr McDowell said considerable challenges lie ahead in developing "effective and sustainable integration strategies".