Dozens of Irish NGOs receive over €1 million funding for anti-racism projects

Over €1 million in funding will be made available to dozens of NGOs (Non-Governmental Organisations) for anti-racism projects. 

The Minister of State for Community Development, Integration and Charities, Joe O’Brien, made the announcement today (September 21), and confirmed 24 NGOs and community organisations will receive €1.3 million to combat racism and foster racial equality and community cohesion. 

Grants of up to €100,000 will be allocated to successful organisations to assist with the implementation of the National Action Plan against Racism, published March 21, 2023. 

The funding call arises from Action 2.14 of the plan, which states: "Provide funding for national and local initiatives that aim to combat racism and foster racial equality and community cohesion, in order to support the implementation of this plan and the achievement of its objectives." 

One hundred thousand euro will be allocated to the DCU Anti-Bullying Centre for a mixed methods study, while the Immigrant Council of Ireland will receive €98,000 for their 'Show Racism the Red Card' project.

The National Youth Council of Ireland will be allocated €88,500 to help empower young people and change racism through "targeted and mainstream inclusion in youth work". 

Longford Africans Network will receive €10,000 for a training and development program, with €7,800 going towards the Mendicity Institution to help international protection applicants train for employment. 

Ninety eight thousand euro has also been allocated to the Irish Traveller Movement for their Yellow Flag programme, which aims to promote greater understanding and valuing of cultural diversity within school communities. 

Speaking at Dalymount Park, home of one of the successful applicants, Bohemian F.C., Minister O’Brien said, "I am delighted to announce the results of the first funding call under the Ireland Against Racism Fund.

"This fund is a key element of the National Action Plan against Racism, and the grant awards announced today will assist 24 projects, both local and national, in undertaking important work that will support the objectives of the action plan.

"I was hugely impressed with the calibre of applications to the fund, and I look forward to seeing the various projects and initiatives bear fruit over the next 12 months and beyond." 

A full list of funded projects is available here.