County Wexford has about 120 asylum seekers in 3 emergency Direct Provision Centres, and 220 Syrian and Iraqi resettled refugees.
Generally there has been a positive and welcoming local response, but there is a widespread need and demand for a clearer understanding of International Protection and how it works. A group of refugees and asylum seekers from Courtown, Gorey and Rosslare have been training as Sanctuary Ambassadors in a programme sponsored by Wexford Local Development. The group is working really well, with training and practice in making a short speech and telling your story, confidence building, and opportunities to speak to groups in schools and other community groups. The group has now linked with Wexford County Council and has now been invited to meet the county council and explain ways they would like to be helped to integrate and settle in their new home county. It’s empowering and exciting, so watch this space!
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