Press release
Minister O’Gorman announces action by Ireland to respond to the crisis in Moria
From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth
Published on
Last updated on
Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman TD has today announced action by Ireland to respond to the crisis in Moria refugee camp in Lesbos.
Speaking today, the Minister said:
"Last week, we witnessed the shocking scene of a fire destroying large sections of the Moria migrant camp in Lesbos. The fire compounded the incredibly difficult circumstances in which so many people are living.
"Over the last few days, I have been actively engaging with Tusla, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Foreign Affairs with a view to expediting the transfer of unaccompanied children from Greek camps.
"I have therefore asked that arrangements be made with Tusla to accelerate the arrival of 4 more unaccompanied children in the coming weeks. I would like to extend my thanks to Tusla colleagues who have responded rapidly to this request to bring these young people to safety.
"In addition to this, my officials and I are working with Tusla to identify additional resources, in the context of Budget 2021, to meet our commitments to the transfer of unaccompanied children in Greece to Ireland as quickly as possible.
"I know that Irish people want to see us playing our part in helping these children, and I acknowledge that Ireland has more to do in this regard. I will continue to work with colleagues across Government and state agencies to fulfil our commitment."
ENDS