Project bids to help separated children in asylum process

A pilot project is aiming to ensure that separated children in the asylum process in Ireland will receive the support of a mentor…

A pilot project is aiming to ensure that separated children in the asylum process in Ireland will receive the support of a mentor to support them through the asylum process.

The Independent Advocacy Pilot Project was launched by Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald yesterday.

The project aims to provide information and support for separated children by providing advocates who will act as a mentor during the children’s time in the asylum process and who will help them integrate into Irish society.

“As the Minister responsible for the care and protection of children in the State I am particularly alert to the plight of children coming into the country alone, frightened and needing our care,” she said.

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“The State has a duty to ensure they receive the same level of care as that received by indigenous children,” she said.

Samantha Arnold, officer with the Irish Refugee Council, said separated children were “exceptionally vulnerable and can be daunted by the asylum process”.