JRS Ireland concludes Integration Programmes

JRS Ireland has just finished a 7 week Integration Support Group which ran during April and May.  

The group consisted of 12 asylum seekers and refugees and three Irish volunteers.  The aim of the project was to improve conversational language skills, to learn about Irish culture, to encourage migrants to access local amenities and to give asylum seekers living in state accommodation an opportunity to meet new people and enjoy themselves.  The programme consisted of four conversation sessions- where the group spoke about Irish culture and life and then participants presented aspects of culture from their home countries.  The group also went on three trips together- to the National Stadium of Ireland, Dublin Zoo and to the National Botanic Gardens.   The programme is funded by Dublin City Council Integration Fund

JRS Ireland also ran a 10 week dress-making course in a Reception Centre for asylum seekers in Dublin city.  Seven asylum seekers took part in the course.  Each student started out by learning how to set-up and operate the sewing machine.  The teacher, who is a local professional tailor, then worked with each student to create their own individual item of clothing.