National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism (NCCRI)

The National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism (NCCRI) was established in 1998 and is an independent expert body, primarily funded by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, focusing on racism and interculturalism. This monthly e-bulletin is designed to provide relevant and up to date information in the areas of anti-racism and interculturalism. If you have information about events, campaigns, initiatives or publications etc related to racism and interculturalism in Ireland, we would like to hear from you. To send information or to subscribe/unsubscribe to this email bulletin, please send email to info@nccri.ie

1. Policy and Legislative Updates

Irish Developments

Ireland’s Implementation of the Council of Europe’s Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities
Conor Lenihan Appointed Junior Minister for Integration Policy
AIB Report on The Irish Labour Market 2007 and Beyond
Less than One in Ten Granted Refugee Status
Laois County Council Adopts Strategy for Travellers
Nigerian Woman Fighting Deportation Keeps her Autistic Son in Ireland for Extended Period
Call to Give Child Benefit to Asylum Seekers

EU/International Developments

Advisory Committee Adopts Opinions on the United Kingdom, Cyprus and Austria
EU Visa Information System to Help Prevent Visa Shopping
Publication of a Green Paper on a Common European Asylum System
EU Proposal for Sanctions Against Employers of Undocumented Third-country Nationals
The European Union Improves the Framework for the Collection of Migration and Asylum Statistics
Council of Europe Additional Protocol to the Convention on Cyber Crime Concerning the Criminalisation of Acts of a Racist and Xenophobic Nature Committed Through Computer Systems

2. Upcoming Funding Deadlines / Awards

Simon Cumbers Media Challenge Fund
Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust Funding for Ireland
Call for Proposals: Youth in Action Action 1 – Youth for Europe Pilot Projects on Thematic Networking
Open call for proposals — European Year of Intercultural Dialogue 2008
St Stephen's Green Trust Grants Scheme
Civil Society Fund from Irish Aid
Development Education Grant Scheme
Artist in the Community Scheme 2007
The Bar Council's Voluntary Assistance Scheme
Community Foundation for Ireland: Philanthropist of the Year Awards
EU Networks Call for Proposals - Combating Social Exclusion and Discrimination, Promoting Gender Equality and the Integration of Disabled People, and Representing Roma People.

3. Events and Initiatives

The Preparatory Committee Meeting for the Durban Review Conference
EU Masters Programme in European Integration and Regionalism
Meath Intercultural Family Festival
Human Rights Fieldwork: Principles, Strategies and Skills
Graduate Certificate in Community Interpreting at Dublin City University
Festival of World Cultures 2007, Dun laoghaire
Diploma in Social Integration & Enterprise for Community Development Workers by distance learning
Facilitating Equality, Reflection, Analysis and Practice
Ethnic Minorities and Community Safety
Diversity & Equality Awareness Training
FM-WEPON Project (Female Migrant Workers Equal Participation On Networks) Supported by EWM (Equality for Women Measure)
European Conference DECET Network - Foundations for Equal Opportunities for All in Early Childhood Care and Education
Global Community Forum on Migration, Development and Human Rights
Master Programme in Human Rights Law - University of Ulster
‘Waiting Room’ an Exhibition on the Asylum Process
Rights and Righteousness: Religious Pluralism and Human Rights

4. Job Opportunities/ Calls for Tender

NCCRI Project and Information Support Officer Vacancy
Open Call for Tenders for a Study on Positive Action Measures in the EU
Limerick Travellers Development Group: 2 vacancies
SPIRASI’s Centre for Health Information and Promotion: Researcher
Nasc, the Irish Immigrant Support Centre: 2 x Advocacy Officers
Invitation to Tender for Study of Ethnic Minority Communities in Donegal
Educate Together: Second-level Project Manager
Educate Together: New Schools Officer
Integrating Ireland: Invitation to Tender for Project Evaluation
Co-operation Fingal: Traveller Programme Co-ordinator
EU Commission and Open Society Institute - Internships for Young Roma University Graduates
Integrating Ireland: Administration and Finance Officer
Traineeship with ENAR

5. Recent Publications and Resources

Refugee Unite New Website Resource
PICUM Guide: Undocumented Migrant Workers Have Rights! An Overview of the International Human Rights Framework
Second Edition of EU Handbook on Integration published
Legal Aid Board Launches Revised Web Site
EWL Publication on Migrant Women in the EU
New Website for the Irish Naturalisation & Immigration Service
FAI's New Intercultural Football Plan - Many Voices, One Goal
OHCHR Releases New Annual Report
From the Margin to the Centre-Capturing the Perspectives of Young People from European Minority Groups
OECD’s Annual International Migration Outlook 2007

Policy and Legislative Updates

Irish Developments

Ireland’s Implementation of the Council of Europe’s Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities

NCCRI welcomes the adoption of the Resolution of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe on Ireland’s implementation of the Council’s Framework Convention for the protection of National Minorities. The Resolution expresses concern that ‘Travellers continue to be exposed to discrimination in different contexts and negative societal attitudes towards them and certain new minority groups persist, and also that these problems are at times fuelled by some media reports promoting negative stereotypes.’

The comments on the need for further action in the areas of Traveller accommodation and education provided a good start for the new government in implementing Traveller accommodation plans and the Report and Recommendations for a Traveller Education Strategy. As the Resolution states all require participation by Traveller representatives ensuring effective participation by Traveller representatives in the various bodies dealing with Traveller issues. There is also a need to ensure that any changes to complaints mechanisms – such as the transfer of non-discrimination cases concerning licensed premises from the Equality Tribunal to the District Court – are monitored for accessibility and effectiveness of remedies and adequate resourcing of the structures.

The authorities are also actively seeking solutions to address new challenges resulting from the expanding diversity of the country. The Resolution notes the need for further steps to accommodate the growing diversity of Irish Schools, including in relation to the increasing demand for nondenominational or multi-denominational schools. For further information contact: www.nccri.ie

New Junior Minister for Integration Policy Appointed

Conor Lenihan has been appointed the Minister of State for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs; Education and Science, and Justice, Equality and Law Reform with special responsibility for Integration Policy and has already set out a number of key measures to include the introduction of US-style linguistic exams to test competency in English for those who want to be granted citizenship of this country.. The programme for government agreed recently by Fianna Fail, the Greens and the PDs includes a review of the proposed Immigration, Residence and Protection Bill. For further information please go to: www.oireachtas.ie/viewdoc.asp?DocID=7918

AIB Report on The Irish Labour Market 2007 and Beyond

AIB published this report on the future of the Irish labour market, which examines the Irish market in terms of employment demand on a sectoral basis and also in terms of the future sources of labour supply. The bank says that it must be doubtful whether the labour force can continue to exhibit the robust growth rates of recent years. Ireland has increasingly relied on an influx of foreign nationals to fuel labour force growth. However, the level of net inward migration may already have peaked. Overall, labour force growth looks set to slow to 3.5% in 2007 and 2.5% in 2008, from 4.5% last year. For further information please go to: www.aibeconomicresearch.com/...LongLink...

Less Than One in Ten Granted Refugee Status

Less than one asylum seeker in ten was granted refugee status in Ireland last year, according to new figures. Of the 4,314 applications for asylum made in the State, a total of 397 (9.4 per cent) were granted according to the sixth annual report of the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner. For further information www.orac.ie/pages/CorpOff/publications.htm

Council Adopts Strategy for Travellers

LAOIS Co. Council adopted an interagency two-year strategy for Laois Travellers at a recent meeting. A number of priority areas were identified with corresponding aims at addressing these issues including: education and children, training and employment, and health and accommodation. For further information go to: www.laois.ie

Nigerian Woman Fighting Deportation Keeps her Autistic Son in Ireland for Extended Period

A Nigerian woman fighting deportation to keep her autistic son in Ireland was today spared being returned to her home country for at least another five weeks. In the High Court, Cormac O Dulachan, SC for the family, had argued that Ms Agbonlahor and her children should remain in the country under an EU directive which became law in October 2006.He said the subsidiary protection scheme protects people who have lost an asylum application, but who can apply to remain in the state on humanitarian grounds. The barrister told the court that the directive aims to protect vulnerable people, including minors and the disabled, and gave primary concern to children. For further reading of this article go to: www.online.ie/News/News.aspx?newsId=770782

NCCRI Call to Restore Child Benefit to Asylum Seekers

At the launch of a new publication Challenging Myths and Misinformation on Asylum Seekers and Refugees Mr. Philip Watt, of the National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism, stated that children of asylum seekers were now the only category of children in the country who were not entitled to the payment due to discontinuation after the introduction of the habitual residency condition, a measure aimed at restricting welfare benefits to citizens of new EU states. For further information: www.nccri .ie

EU/International Developments

Advisory Committee Adopts Opinions on the United Kingdom, Cyprus and Austria

The Advisory Committee on the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities adopted three country-specific opinions last week under the second cycle of monitoring the implementation of this convention in States Parties. The opinion on the United Kingdom was adopted on 6 June, the opinion on Cyprus on 7 June and the opinion on Austria on 8 June. For further information go to: www.coe.int/minorities

EU Visa Information System to Prevent Visa Shopping

The Civil Liberties Committee of the Council approved on Monday a regulation setting up a database for exchange of data between Member States on short-stay visas and visa applications from third country citizens who wish to enter the EU's Schengen area. The text is the result of an agreement with Council so the legislative process should be completed at the first reading stage after the full Parliament votes on the regulation in June. For further information contact:

Press Service: libe-press@europarl.europa.eu

Publication of a Green Paper on a Common European Asylum System

The Green Paper on the Common European Asylum System was published on 6 June. With this document the Commission intends to initiate a broad consultation process on the future of European asylum policies and on attaining a Common European Asylum System by 2010. The deadline for responses is 31 August 2007. Alongside the Green Paper the Commission issued a proposal on long-term residence (LTR) for refugees and others in need of protection which amends the current Directive in order to extend to them the possibility to obtain LTR status subject to the same conditions applicable to any other third-country nationals. It also published a report on the evaluation of the Dublin II system, which aims to determine which member state is responsible for the examination of an asylum application lodged by a third-country national on the territory of one of the member states.

For further detailed information go to:

www.europa.eu/...LongLink...

EU Proposal for Sanctions Against Employers of Undocumented Third-country Nationals

In May the European Commission adopted a proposal for a Directive that targets the employment of third-country nationals who are illegally staying in the EU. Building on existing measures in the Member States, the aim is to ensure that all Member States introduce similar penalties for employers of such third-country nationals and enforce them effectively.The proposal provides for sanctions on employers, both persons employing others in the course of business activities, but also private individuals when they act as employers.As a preventive measure, employers would be required before recruiting a third-country national to check that they have a residence permit or another authorisation for stay. Employers who can show that they had carried out those obligations would not be liable to sanctions. Sanctions would include fines, repayment of outstanding wages, taxes and social security contributions, and criminal penalties. For further information: www.europa.eu/...LongLink...p

The European Union Improves the Framework for the Collection of Migration and Asylum Statistics

The Council has adopted a Regulation on Community Statistics on migration and international protection (asylum). The text had already been approved by the European Parliament in March, under the co-decision procedure. The Regulation specifies the collection of statistics relating to international migration flows, foreign population stocks, acquisition of citizenship, asylum applications and decisions, measures taken against illegal entry and stay, returns of unauthorised migrants, and residence permits issued to third-country citizens. For further information:

www.europa.eu/...LongLink...

Council of Europe Additional Protocol to the Convention on Cyber Crime Concerning the Criminalisation of Acts of a Racist and Xenophobic Nature Commited Through Computer Systems.

Only 6 EU member states have ratified the Protocol and only 19 out of 27 EU member states are signatories. Eight EU member states have not yet even signed up to the Protocol. Protocol’s full-text is available at: www.coe-cybercrime-protocol-on-racism.pdf

2. Upcoming Funding/ Awards

Simon Cumbers Media Challenge Fund

The Simon Cumbers' Media Challenge fund supports media projects highlighting issues in the developing world. Print, photographic, radio and other journalists are encouraged to apply as are those considering a TV documentary on the themes suggested.

The Simon Cumbers Media Challenge Fund is a funding scheme aimed at assisting and promoting more and better quality media coverage of development issues within the Irish media. The fund is managed by Connect-World on behalf of Irish Aid.

Connect-World is an Irish organisation, created and supported by the development aid community in Ireland, with a mandate to seek to increase the quantity and the type of coverage of international development issues in the media. Connect-World is funded by its sponsors, which include the Irish government and a range of the most significant NGOs.

Upcoming Deadlines:

Standard Grant Round II - Monday 1 October 2007
TV Seed Grant Monday 3 March 2008
Standard Grant Round I - Wednesday 30 April 2008
Standard Grant Round II - Tuesday 30 September 2008

All information about the administration of the Fund is available at www.connect-world.net/Links/Simon_Cumbers_Fund/Simon_Cumbers_Media_Fund.html

Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust funding for Ireland

We support work in Northern Ireland and the Republic that fosters a culture of equality and human rights:
- Promoting dialogue
- Encouraging co-operation across religious, racial and political divides
- Addressing poverty and social exclusion.

The Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust (JRCT) aims to fund work which will contribute to the ongoing development of a just and peaceful society in the island of Ireland.

JRCT takes no position on the constitutional arrangements within the island, but recognises the strong historical, cultural and practical links between Britain, Northern Ireland, and Ireland.

What we will fund
The Trust is interested in funding work which:

Addresses the root causes of violence and injustice, rather than alleviating symptoms
Cannot be funded from other sources
Likely to make a long-term, strategic difference.

The Trust will consider applications in the following areas:

Work based on international human rights standards that deals effectively and constructively with past injustice arising out of the Northern Ireland conflict;
Work that facilitates the demilitarisation of paramilitary groups, and the ending of paramilitary influence in communities;
Work that enables meaningful dialogue across religious, cultural or political divides in order to address common problems;
Work that effectively challenges sectarianism, or discrimination arising from racism or xenophobia
Work which promotes the development of a tolerant, pluralist and multi-ethnic society
Work that promotes rational and humane migration and integration policies benefiting both migrant and settled communities
Work that encourages accountability, openness and responsiveness in all levels of government, statutory agencies and the civil service
Work that protects and enhances civil liberties and human rights;
Work that promotes non-violence and creative ways to handle conflict, within specific communities or traditions, or at a national or international level
Work which strengthens civil society in order to play an appropriate role in addressing the issues listed above.

The Trust is interested in supporting work in either jurisdiction, or on a cross-border basis, or at an all-Ireland level. Local work will be supported only where it is likely to have a wider impact, for example if it is testing a model which can then be replicated, or is addressing a local issue that has wider social or political implications.

What we will not fund
In addition to the Trust's general exclusions, the following types of work will not be funded:

The delivery of basic services to people in need, including welfare advice, women's refuges, basic skills training etc.
Work with or for children and young people
Work related to health or disability
Any form of personal healing or therapeutic work, including counselling;
Community relations work that does not include a clear strategy for lasting change;
Historical research, documentation or archival work;
The core costs of community centres, local women's groups, local voluntary sector infrastructure organisations or similar community level groups.

For more details and application forms check www.jrct.org.uk/text.asp?section=000100020005

Closing dates in 2007: 20 August.

It is extremely helpful if applications arrive well before the deadline whenever possible. The period immediately after the deadline is our busiest time, so we cannot normally consider applications that arrive late until the following funding round.

Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust
The Garden House, Water End, York, YO30 6WQ

tel +44 (0)1904 627810

Call for Proposals: Youth in Action 1 – Youth for Europe Pilot Projects on Thematic Networking

Deadline: 01.09.2007

This call for proposals aims to support the networking of youth exchange projects, youth initiatives and democracy projects underway now or in the past under the Youth in Action programme and the Youth programme.

These networks must aim to:

establish links between projects tackling the same theme;
pool experiences in a specific thematic field;
increase the links between youth exchanges, youth initiatives and youth democracy projects;
valorise, disseminate and exploit the results of the projects.
The proposed theme must reflect the objectives of the Youth in Action programme. It shall concern at least one of the programme’s permanent priorities, namely:
European citizenship;
participation of young people;
cultural diversity;
inclusion of young people with fewer opportunities.

The project may cover one of the four themes as a whole or deal with a specific aspect or sub-theme forming part of these four themes, for instance the question of combating xenophobia and racism (which comes under the broader theme of cultural diversity) or the inclusion of young people in rural areas (which comes under the broader theme of including young people with fewer opportunities).

Thematic networking will take place at three levels:

The first stage will involve project organisers and managers, for instance youth organisations, youth workers, etc.;

The second stage will involve the young people who took part or are taking part in the projects.
Ideally, the project will aim to cover a wider population by reaching out to other young people as well;

The third stage will involve youth educators and youth workers, as well as people responsible for youth issues at local, regional, national or European level.

Applicants

Proposals should be submitted by non-profit-making organisations or associations or by local, regional or national bodies with a legal personality which are legally established on the date the application is submitted in one of the Programme countries: Member States of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Turkey.

The projects must involve partners from at least ten different countries (applicant body included). All the partners must have developed projects or be in the process of implementing them under the Youth or Youth in Action programmes. The partners may not have any statutory links with the applicant body.

Legal basis

Decision No 1719/2006/EC1 of 15 November 2006 of the European Parliament and the Council

Community contribution

Financial assistance may not be granted for more than 65% of a project’s total eligible expenses.

The maximum amount a project may be awarded is EUR 100 000.

Publication reference

EACEA 08/2007

Official Journal of the European Union C 119/13 (30.5.2007)

Contact

For all queries, please contact: YouthTN@ec.europa.eu n order to apply and for further information please consult the following website:
www.eacea.ec.europa.eu/youth/calls ...

Open Call for Proposals — European Year of Intercultural Dialogue 2008

Deadline: 07.2007

The Commission is launching this open call for proposals in order to co-finance a limited number of emblematic actions on a European scale aimed at promoting intercultural dialogue, involving directly or otherwise reaching as many people as possible, and highlighting achievements and experiences on the theme of the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue 2008.

This limited number of emblematic actions on a European scale should be aimed at raising awareness of the objectives of the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue 2008 and at underlining the meaning and importance of intercultural dialogue, illustrating various areas, methods and dimensions of intercultural dialogue in the European Union in a manner which is visible and attractive, particularly (but not exclusively) to young people.

Applicants

Public or private bodies having experience in the field of intercultural dialogue and whose registered office is located in one of the 27 Member States of the European Union.

Such bodies have to carry out their activities at European level, alone or in the form of various coordinated associations, and their structure and activities shall have a potential influence at European Union level.

Legal basis

Decision No 1983/2006/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006

Community contribution

Financial contribution from the Commission cannot exceed 80 % of total eligible cost of each project. Each grant will amount to between minimum EUR 200 000 and maximum EUR 400 000.

Publication reference

DG EAC/07/07

Official Journal of the EU 2007/C 78/09 of 11.4.2007

Contact

For all queries, please contact:
isabel-maria.almeida@ec.europa.eu

St Stephen's Green Trust Grants Scheme

It now has 4 Grant Focus areas:

Specific areas of disability (Autistic Spectrum Disorder; Hearing Impairment);
Development and Integration (Older people in isolation; New Communities; Travellers);
Breaking the Link (Homelessness; Offenders);
Christian Values and Social Change.

Who is eligible to apply?
SSGT will accept applications from voluntary or community organisations, with a CHY or XR number. If the number is pending or if there is no charitable status, the Trust will require copies of the instrument under which the organisation is set up, such as Constitution or Memo and Articles of Association. If your group is does not fit into one of these categories, please check with us before completing an application form.

New Communities: The Trust is interested in local or county-based projects increasing the integration of new communities into Irish society. We view integration as a two-way process and therefore welcome multi-sector involvement, including locally-based trade unions, churches, schools, community groups, immigrant and ethnic minority organisations. We look to the EU Basic Principles of Integration to inform our approach and therefore welcome projects focusing on: integration as a two-way process; employment as key to participation; increasing knowledge of host society’s language, history and institutions; efforts in education; equal access to institutions, goods and services; frequent interactions between immigrants and citizens and participation in the democratic process. We will seek to partner with local / county organisations to develop policy and practice in the area of integration of new communities.

Travellers: The Trust recognises the multiple layers of disadvantage and racism experienced by Travellers in Irish society. We have a particular interest in locally-based projects seeking to increase the participation of male Travellers in the development of their own community. Initiatives breaking new ground in the area of family support, culturally-appropriate employment initiatives and personal development are especially welcome. We will also support projects seeking to disseminate best practice in these areas.

Ineligible activities
The Trust cannot consider applications for building costs; general appeals; retrospective funding and individuals.

Application Process

Applications are accepted on an on-going basis and are assessed 4 times a year. Deadlines for each period are below.

We encourage applicants to contact us before completing the application form to ensure the project meets the Trust's criteria.

Applications are considered by the Trustees, usually within six weeks of the deadlines. Applicants are informed of their decision within a week of that meeting.

Occasionally an application will be deferred pending receipt of further information.

Organisations in receipt of a grant will be required to provide information relating to the grant e.g. reports, updates and newsletters. The Trust also requires mention of the grant in annual reports and accounts and any other appropriate publication.

For guidelines on the new areas and other criteria, please contact Orla O'Neill
Grants & Development Director
email info@ssgt.ie, tel 045 480 666.

Deadlines for 2007
- 17th August
- 26th October

St Stephen's Green Trust
PO Box 950, Naas, Co Kildare
Website: www.ssgt.ie

Civil Society Fund from Irish Aid

Irish Aid, the Government's official development assistance programme, invites applications under the Civil Society Fund (CSF) from Irish civil society organisations. The CSF supports non-governmental organisations and other civil society organisations to respond to the development needs of poor communities overseas.

All organisations funded through the CSF will be subject to monitoring and evaluation by Irish Aid. The Civil Society Fund Reporting, Monitoring and Evaluation Guidelines, available at www.irishaid.gov.ie/grants_civil.asp - are designed to assist CSF partner organisations in monitoring and reporting to Irish Aid on grants received.

The closing date for receipt of applications for the third round of funding for 2007 is 5.00 p.m. Friday 3rd August 2007. It is anticipated that the meeting of the Approvals Committee for this round will take place on 2 and 3 October 2007.

Please submit applications and queries electronically to: csfund@dfa.ie

Development Education Grant Scheme

Development education has a crucial role to play in increasing public understanding in Ireland of development issues, especially as they relate to developing countries. It seeks to challenge attitudes which perpetuate poverty and injustice and through education to empower people to act to bring about more equal development.

Irish Aid, the Government's official development assistance programme, invites applications from voluntary organisations and educational bodies for grants for development education projects, which are designed to increase awareness and understanding of development issues.

Closing date for receipt of applications for Round Two of funding is 5 p.m. Friday 29th June 2007

Enquiries: 01 4082096
Email: developmenteducation@dfa.ie

Relevant documentation for prospective applicants includes:

Development Education Grant Scheme Guidelines for 2007 (pdf)
Research Application Form (doc)
Research Explanatory Notes (doc)
Project Application Form (doc)
Project Explanatory Notes (doc)

and is available for download at www.irishaid.gov.ie/grants_education.asp

Development Education Grants Scheme
Irish Aid
Department of Foreign Affairs
Bishop's Square
Redmond's Hill
Dublin 2

Tel: 01 4082096
E-Mail: developmenteducation@dfa.ie

Artist in the Community Scheme 2007

Twice yearly, The Arts Council offers grants to enable artists and communities of place or interest to work together on projects. The scheme covers all art forms. The Artist in the Community Scheme is managed by Create, the national development agency for collaborative arts.

The aim of the scheme is to encourage intense collaboration between communities of place and/or interest and artists, culminating in an artwork or a project in which the members of the community group and the artists work together. It is essential that meaningful consultation take place between the artist and the community group, so that both parties are involved in deciding on the nature of the project. Group ownership of the art should be maintained at every stage.

There are two phases to the scheme:

Phase One, Research & Development, is open to artists who wish to research and develop a project in a community context. Maximum time frame is 3 months. The maximum amount awarded in Phase One is Euro 1,000.

Phase Two, Project Realisation, is open to communities of interest or place (or their representative organisations), planning a project of between 6 weeks and 5 months with a maximum award of Euro 5000, and those who agree planning a project of between 6 months and 9 months with a maximum award of Euro 10,000.

Next deadline for 2007: 5pm Friday 29 June 2007.

For further information, application forms or to book an advisory session, contact
Katherine Atkinson, Project Support & Professional Development,
tel 01 - 473 66 00 / email support@create-ireland.ie

3. Events and Initiatives

The Preparatory Committee for the Durban Review Conference

Geneva 25 to 29 June 2007

At its third session, the Human Rights Council in its resolution 3/2 decided that the Human Rights Council will act as the Preparatory Committee for the Durban Review Conference which shall be open to the participation of all Member States of the United Nations and members of the specialized agencies and also to the participation of observers in accordance with the established practice of the General Assembly. It further decided that at its organizational sessions the Preparatory Committee shall elect, on the basis of equitable geographic representation, a bureau for the Preparatory Committee and that, at the same session, the Preparatory Committee shall decided on all the relevant modalities for the Conference in accordance with established practice of the General Assembly, including deciding on the objectives of the Review Conference, the level at which the Review Conference shall be convened, regional preparatory initiatives, date and venue. For further information go to: www.ohchr.org/english/issues/racism/groups/prep_committee_durban/index.htm

Masters Programme in European Integration and Regionalism

The Master Programme is offered by University of Graz (Austria) and implemented in cooperation with European Academy of Bolzano (Italy) and European Institute of Public Administration (Luxembourg and Barcelona). Successful participants are awarded by the University of Graz the academic degree of "Master of European Studies" (M.E.S.).

The core topics of the programme are European Integration, EU Law, Federalism and Regionalism, EU Regional and Social Cohesion, Minorities and Diversity.

Further information about the Master Programme as well as the application forms can be found at www.eurac.edu/meir

We would like to inform you that the deadline for application for the academic year 2007-2008 is prolonged till 30 June 2007.

CONTACT
European Academy of Bolzano
Minorities and Autonomies
Drususallee/Viale Druso 1
I-39100 Bozen/Bolzano, Italy
Phone: +39 0471 055 223 - Fax: +39 0471 055 299
email: meir@eurac.edu

Meath Intercultural Family Festival

The 4th annual Intercultural Family Festival for Co Meath will be held
at Claremont Stadium in Navan on Saturday 11th August from 12noon to 6pm.

It is a one-day event jointly organised by the Meath Local Sports Partnership and Cultúr, together with local voluntary and community organisations. Everyone is welcome!

As the Festival is a celebration of Cultural Diversity there will be lots of displays of cultural sport, music, dance, arts, crafts, food and a selection of workshops.

One of the highlights of the Festival is "The Mini-World-Cup", a 5-A-Side soccer tournament between teams of players from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Running alongside this will be an FAI soccer coaching school for children.
You can contact the Festival Co-ordinator, Deirdre Patel,
tel: 087 759 2320 or email: deirdrepatel@eircom.net

Human Rights Fieldwork: Principles, Strategies and Skills

Training course organised by the International Human Rights Network

Location: National University of Ireland, Maynooth, Ireland + Field Exercise a the Irish Defence Forces training facility at Coolmoney Camp, Glen of Imaal, County Wicklow.

Dates: Saturday 27th October - Saturday 3rd November 2007

This Training Programme will:

Explore the principles underpinning effective human rights fieldwork; and Enhance the skills of participants needed to carry this out safely before, during or after armed conflict.

The emphasis is on ensuring that human rights fieldwork is relevant, effective, sustainable, participatory and accountable. The programme is designed to raise participants' self-awareness in terms of behaviour, attitudes and values in undertaking international human rights fieldwork.

Core principles include the need for genuine partnership with local human rights defenders - both state and non-state. Participants are facilitated in approaching their own development as an on-going process. As a successful applicant you will be part of a multinational, multicultural group with a range of relevant skills and experience.

Participants
Reflecting the multi-disciplinary nature of human rights fieldwork and the training programme, applications are invited from:

Human rights specialists who wish to adapt pre-existing knowledge of international human rights framework to the context of human rights fieldwork; and from

Experienced field practitioners who wish to reflect on their work and enhance their skills with a human rights based perspective, including military or civilian police/peacekeepers, development and humanitarian aid practitioners etc.

Typically, participants have worked for, or plan to work for, international field missions of the UN, OSCE, the European Union or the African Union or non-governmental sector.

Participants will generally have a relevant degree/training and a minimum of three years relevant experience. However, diverse skills of applicants will be taken into account so as to ensure an optimum mix of disciplines and profiles. The course will be conducted in English and places are limited to thirty.

For more information contact International Human Rights Network
Glenboy House, Oldcastle, County Meath, Ireland.

Tel: + 353 (0) 49 8542934 / 96
Fax: + 353 (0) 49 8542934
e-mail: info@ihrnetwork.org
Paul McGrath will be the guest-of-honour for the duration of the day and he’ll be present to play football with the children and to sign autographs.

Graduate Certificate in Community Interpreting at Dublin City University

This is a part time, one semester course for interpreters who work or would like to work in the courts, garda stations, hospitals etc. Speakers of any language can enrol for three core modules. Polish speakers can enrol for the full course (including Polish-English Interpreting Practice) starting in September 2007.

Programme Overview
The programme targets experienced interpreters and people with a knowledge of languages who may be interested in working in community interpreting situations such as in hospitals, garda stations, district courts, interviews with asylum seekers, social welfare offices, etc. The aims and objectives of the course are:

to make students aware of ethical issues that may arise in the course of interpreting;
to provide professional training in interpreting;
to teach students how to source appropriate terms and definitions;
to equip students with the skills they need to work effectively as interpreters.

The programme aims to increase the professionalisation of community interpreting in Ireland.

Programme Structure
The programme is delivered on a part-time basis with lectures taking place on Thursday evenings and on Saturdays. Students enrolled for the programme in Semester 1 will have lectures from late September for 12 weeks with assessment during January while students enrolled in Semester 2 will have lectures from early February for 12 weeks with assessment in May. Students study four core modules making of total of 30 credits for the course.

Closing date for applications: 31th August 2007

For more information see
www.dcu.ie/prospective/deginfo.php?classname=GCCI&mode=full

or contact Mary Phelan
School of Applied Language and Intercultural Studies
Dublin City University, Dublin 9,
Tel. (01) 700 57 88
Email Mary.Phelan@dcu.ie

Festival of World Cultures 2007, Dun laoghaire

Call for Participation in the Festival of World Cultures:

Dun Laoghaire 24, 25, 26 August 2007

In 2006 upwards of 220,000 attended the Festival of World Cultures featuring artists from over 50 countries and an incredible 160 events in just three days.

We are currently programming for this year's Festival and, as in previous years, we would be delighted to include performances across all art forms showcasing the artistic work carried out by community groups and cultural organisations throughout Ireland. With as always a focus on cultures and traditions from around the world, this year in particular we are concentrating on music, dance & street theatre with additional opportunities for involvement in the Festival's food and craft markets.

If you are interested in participating in the 2007 Festival please give us a call or send us an email. Ph: (01) 2719510 / Email: fwc@dlrcoco.ie

Now in its 7th year the Festival, a Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council event, carves a special groove on the global world music circuit and is Ireland’s foremost intercultural event.

With more than 160 events in 40 venues and featuring artists from 50 countries the Festival entertains audiences in excess of 200,000 with its diverse and expanding programme of music, circus, theatre, dance, club nights, markets, exhibitions, workshops and activities for children.

This year's 72-hour global feast also includes a global village fair, an international food market, once-in-a-lifetime workshops, free outdoor music concerts and family events and a host of late-night parties. The Festival is a unique chance to travel the globe without leaving the shores of Dun Laoghaire.

Full festival details will be announced in early July 2007.

Contact Details Ph: +353 (1) 271 9555 / E: fwc@dlrcoco.ie
www.festivalofworldcultures.com

Diploma in Social Integration & Enterprise for Community Development Workers by Distance learning

University College Cork is now seeking applications for the Diploma in Social Integration & Enterprise for Community Development Workers by distance learning, which recommences in October.

This programme will be of interest to those who:

Want a fully accredited university qualification in community development
Find it difficult to attend traditional classes due to work, family commitments etc.
Are looking for a programme that provides progression to a degree and/or Masters programme.

Eligibility for experienced mature students. The programme is delivered over 1 or 2 years using specially written text-based modules with monthly interactive lectures.

Lectures are held at weekends between October and March with final assessment in May.
On successful completion students may progress to the BSc (Mutual & Credit Union Studies).
Closing date for applications is 31st August 2007 but earlier application is encouraged.

For further information and application forms please contact:
Bridget Carroll,
Centre for Co-operative Studies,
O'Rahilly Building, UCC.
Email: b.carroll@ucc.ie
Tel: 021 - 490 20 70
website www.ucc.ie/ccs/CentreProgrammes/

Facilitating Equality, Reflection, Analysis and Practice

This 2 day course aims to develop facilitation practice that is informed by an
understanding of the principles of equality.

Location: Meitheal, 35 Exchequer St. Dublin 2.
Date: August 22 & 29 (10.00am - 4.30pm)

Cost:
e132 - Community / Voluntary;
e198 - FAS Project Participants & Statutory Sector.

Learning Outcomes
Participants will:

deepen their understanding of the different contexts of equality – social, political, cultural, economic and affective
understand the links between poverty, diversity and inequality
Develop practice informed by this analysis.

Target Group

The course is intended for those who have some previous experience in
facilitating and working in community based or anti-poverty contexts.

There are 12 places and applications received go through to a selection process.

Complete the Meitheal application form available at www.meitheal.ie and return to Meitheal, 35 Exchequer Street, Dublin 2.
Fax: (01) 6719573

Meitheal provides training to the community and voluntary sector, and other organisations working to create social change. Meitheal also delivers this training to groups and organisations in their own communities, or centres.
For more information contact us
Email: info@meitheal.ie
Tel: (01) 6719803

Ethnic Minorities and Community Safety

Date: Wednesday 27th June 2007
Time: 0945 – 1200
Venue: SEEDS, One World Centre, 7-15 Foyle Street, Derry/Londonderry

INCORE, as part of its Diversity In Action project is organising a series of seminars, the third of which is taking place on Wednesday 27th June.

The theme of this seminar is all about community safety. Participants will hear from a representative from PSNI who will talk about safety, reporting of hate crimes, Hate Incident Practical Action Scheme and also road safety, and the recent changes to legislation. We will also hear from Meana Heaney and Tony Quinn, Derry City Council, Community Safety Partnership. There will be an opportunity at this event for participants to voice their concerns and identify the safety issues of greatest importance to members of the minority ethnic community.

To register your place contact Janet Farren on 028 7137 5575 or email je.farren@ulster.ac.uk.

For further information on the Diversity In Action project contact Roisin O’Hagan on 028 71 375523 or email r.ohagan@ulster.ac.uk.

Diversity & Equality Awareness

Date: 10th July 2007
Venue: SureSkills, 14 Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin 2.

This progamme would be aimed at predominantly NGO and not for profit organisations that wish to be aware of Diversity & Equality awareness issues within the workplace.

PROGRAMME AIM
This course introduces participants to the concepts, theories and practices of Diversity and Equality Awareness which are essential to the successful operation of any business. This course will be of benefit on an organizational and individual level. The programme will discuss Irish Law relating to equality, conflict management and encourage participants to think inclusively. Thus assisting the organisation and its employees to work better together and to be aware and value the differences of their increasingly changing client base.

PROGRAMME OBJECTIVES
This programme provides an introduction to Diversity and Equality Awareness that will assist in the following:
- Compliance with the equality legislation
- Positive Staff morale & Staff retention
- Retention of diverse customer base

These will be achieved by covering the following topics:
- Irish Equality Legislation & Negative and Positive Case Studies
- Stereotyping and Generalisation & Communication
- Sexual Harassment & Bullying

Contact Steven Long
SureSkills
Tel: 01-240 22 38
Email Steven.Long@SureSkills.com

FM-WEPON Project (Female Migrant Workers Equal Participation On Networks) supported by EWM (Equality for Women Measure) Celebration

We would like to celebrate our achievements during the two years of the life of this pilot project.

To do so, Mrs Justice Catherine McGuinness (President, Law reform Commission) will Launch the FM-WEPON Project Evaluation and Project Report on Monday 25th June 2007 at 4pm in the Plaza Hotel, Tallaght.

As a part of the program we are holding a discussion Seminar on Gender, Migration and Participation.

Please feel welcome to come along and celebrate the achievements of female migrant workers.

For more information contact:

Zuzana Tesarova,

FM-WEPON project

01-466 4246

086 0678316

European Conference - DECET Network - Foundations for Equal Opportunities for All in Early Childhood Care and Education

DATE: October 18th, 19th, 20th, 2007
VENUE: Kind & Gezin Academie, Hallepoortlaan 27, 1060 Brussels

The ‘éist’ project in Pavee Point is very happy to announce the DECET Network Conference in Brussels in October 2007

(DECET: Diversity in Early Childhood Education and Training)

Please go the DECET website: www.decet.org. and follow the link to the site for registration, accommodation and workshop details.

For further information contact:
Colette Murray: ecce@pavee.iol
Early Childhood Care and Education Coordinator
The ‘éist’ Project
Pavee Point
46 North Great Charles Street
Dublin 1

Global Community Forum on Migration, Development and Human Rights

Migrants Rights International (MRI) Platform for International Cooperation on Undocumented Migrants (PICUM) Migrant Forum in Asia (MFA) and National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (NNIRR)

Brussels, Belgium 10 – 11 July, 2007

This event aims to reintroduce the voice and concrete contribution of migrants, non-governmental organizations and civil society in the global debate. Please note that a finalized program will be sent out closer to the event itself. We hope that you might be able to participate in this event.

For further information: PICUM - Platform for International Cooperation on Undocumented Migrants Gaucheretstraat 164 1030 Brussels Belgium tel. +32/2/274.14.39 fax +32/2/274.14.48 michele.levoy@picum.org www.picum.org

Master programme in Human Rights Law - University of Ulster

The Transitional Justice Institute (with the School of Law) at the University of Ulster in Northern Ireland invites applications for its LLM in Human Rights Law commencing September 2007.

Building on Northern Ireland experiences, this innovative Masters programme offers students a unique opportunity to examine the role of human rights law in post-conflict transitions - both locally and internationally.

Modules address a range of timely themes including: challenges to realising the human rights and equality of women and minority groups; critical perspectives on the 'rule of law' and policing in transitions; human rights and the ongoing 'war on terror'; human rights and humanitarian interventions; globalisation, development and human rights; and human rights of indigenous peoples.

Students may pursue their studies on a full or part-time basis at either the Jordanstown (Belfast) or Magee (L/Derry) campus.
See www.transitionaljustice.ulster.ac.uk for more details on TJI and the LLM programme.

The deadline for applications is Friday June 29, 2007. However, all prospective students, especially international candidates, are strongly urged to submit applications by Thursday 29 March in order to enhance the possibility of successful applicants securing funding to enable their participation.

To apply online please go to: www.ulster.ac.uk/applyonline

Applications received before June 27 2007 will be given priority. However, applications received after that date may also be considered.

If you are interested in applying for a place in the programme, please consult the following links to find out more about possible sources of funding to support your participation in the TJI LLM programme:

‘Waiting Room’ an Exhibition
Four Gallery, Dublin June 8 - June 30

A series of events linked to new work by visual artist Fiona Whitty and inspired by the uncertainly of the asylum process will take place throughout June.

Waiting Room is a solo exhibition by, Fiona Whitty. Waiting Room consists of three components: a video piece, Niger-ish which will be shown in the Four Gallery from June 8th until June 30th.Waiting Room is made possible by Four Gallery and Fire Station Artists Studios. It is funded by the Arts Council’s Artist in the Community Scheme managed by Create, the national development agency for collaborative arts, and Dublin City Council. The project has additional support from Visual Artists Ireland and AkiDwa.

Waiting Room represents Ireland for many Nigerian immigrants coming to seek asylum in the country today. Whitty asked various people from Nigeria what they do while they are waiting for their asylum applications to be processed and they replied, “Just go out, sit down, watch what is happening, what cat and dog that is passing by, citing everything from the window, watch how the white people shout.” “You are just sleeping, waking, doing nothing and you feel rejected in the environment you are in.” She decided to create an exhibition called Waiting Room to further explore issues of immigration and the asylum process in Ireland.

For further information, contact Fiona Whitty , mobile 087 76 44 242 or check out the website: www.waitroomireland.com

Rights and Righteousness: Religious Pluralism and Human Rights

This two-day conference, jointly sponsored by the Irish School of Ecumenics (ISE) and the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission (NIHRC), aims to stimulate productive and new discussions about the relationship between faith and rights.

The conference will be held in Belfast, 1-2 November 2007

The conference will be of interest to educators, clergy, academics, students and human rights practitioners. Questions which we hope to explore at the conference will include:

Are rights everywhere and everywhere the same?
What role do cultural and religious traditions have in the articulation of rights?
Are human rights necessarily secular as some advocates would argue?
Or perhaps, as others argue, is a religious commitment necessary to believe that human beings have an inherent dignity that should be respected?
By what means should we hope to achieve consensus when we differ?
Can we agree on practical outcomes even if we do not share an underlying philosophical basis

For details, contact Louise Furber, NIHRC;
Tel: +44 (0) 28 9024 3987,
Textphone: +44 (0) 28 9024 9066,
Email: rebecca.dudley@nihrc.org

or visit either: www.tcd.ie/ise/news/events.php#rights or www.nihrc.org

4. Job Vacancies/Calls for Tender

The National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism wish to recruit a Project and Information Support Officer for the period August 2007 to June 2008.

This is a temporary, full time contract.

Job Description

Support the preparations and management of European Year of Intercultural Dialogue 2008 for Ireland
Support the development of a strategy document on the Year
Convene steering group meetings involving key stakeholders
Research and implement an innovative communication strategy to reach target audiences
Manage the design, production, dissemination of promotional information materials to mark the launch of the Year and particular key events
Develop and implement a strategic plan to maximize dissemination of information about the Year
Support the Information and communications officer in provision of general information
to support and help organise key events as part of European Year of Intercultural Dialogue 2008
Perform other appropriate tasks as may be required within the broad terms of this job description.

Personnel Specification

A recognised 3rd level Qualification essential. Professional/post graduate qualification desirable but not essential
Experience in working on a project basis and in a team environment
Commitment to anti racism and interculturalism
Excellent organisation and communication skills
Experience of working to tight deadlines
Understanding of working in partnership between civil society and statutory sector
Experience of writing and delivering project reports

The overall role of the NCCRI is as follows:

To act as an expert body to develop an integrated and strategic approach to racism, and its prevention, and to foster interculturalism within Ireland
To inform policy development and seek to build consensus through dialogue in relation to the issues of racism and interculturalism.
To promote the understanding and celebration of cultural diversity within Ireland
To establish links with other organisations or individuals involved in issues of racism and interculturalism arising from developments at European Union and International levels.

For further information about the NCCRI please consult our website at www.nccri.ie

Note: Application by application form only, CV’s will not be accepted.

Please return 3 fully completed application forms by post and email if possible to: info@nccri.ie. Applications must be received by NCCRI before 4pm on Friday, 6th July 2007. Faxed application forms will not be accepted.

Note: Interviews to be held on the 20th July 2007.
Address: Zoe Thompson
NCCRI, Floor 3 Jervis House, Jervis Street, Dublin 1
Ph: 01-8588000
Email: info@nccri.ie

NCCRI is an equal opportunities employer.

The programme is to be based in the NCCRI National Office in Dublin. Some travel linked to 4-5 regional meetings and some international travel likely

The project support officer will liaise with and report on a monthly basis to the Director and steering committee.

The post will be full-time for an initial period of 9 months, renewable subject to funding. The post will be 35 hours per week but a degree of flexibility of working hours around evenings will be expected.

Open Call for Tenders for a Study on Positive Action Measures in the EU

The European Commission wants to develop a framework for better understanding the role that positive action measures can play in practice in preventing or remedying discrimination, building on the knowledge of the existing legal framework. Therefore, the Commission wants to gain a better insight in what kind of practical positive action measures are already being taken in the EU (and in the EFTA-EEA countries participating in PROGRESS) and in third countries. The possible costs and benefits of the positive action measures shall also be indicated by the contractor in the study. The deadline for receipt of bids is 8 August 2007.

www.enar-eu.org/en/wmail/WM97_EN.doc

Limerick Travellers Development Group: 2 vacancies

Limerick Travellers Development Group is Community Development Project that works towards a partnership of Travellers and members of the majority population based on a respect for Traveller culture with the aim of promoting Travellers rights, dignity and equality.

LTDG invites applications for the following positions:

Coordinator of the Primary Health Care Initiative
– Full time.
The Coordinator will be responsible for the implementation of LTDG's health initiatives including the Coordination of the Community Health Workers, within the ethos of Community Development.

The successful candidate will have a relevant third-level qualification and experience Community Development, health or a related discipline.
Applicants should also have:

An understanding of Primary Health Care working from a Community Development approach
A commitment to and an understanding of, Traveller issues including cultural diversity, equality and anti-racism
Good facilitation skills and a track record in the delivery of training
Planning, evaluation and administration skills
Access to own transport
Full Driving Licence
Salary Scale: euro 30,600 to 41,600 (Dept. Development Worker Scale)

This position is funded by the Traveller Health Unit in the Mid Western Region.

Drugs Education and Prevention worker
– Part time.
The project works creatively and co-operatively to prevent drug misuse among the Traveller population, as part of the Limerick City Drugs Strategy.

The successful candidate should have:

A minimum of 2 years experience in youth and community work
A relevant 3rd level qualification
Experience in the design and delivery of drug education training
A commitment to community development principles.
Salary: Euro 33,600 Pro Rata.

This position is funded by the Young People's Facilities and Services fund.

Short listing will apply for both positions.

For an application form and a job description for either of the above positions please contact:

LTDG Recruitment Subgroup
SMWCDSA
Block 1
Floor 2
Ashbourne Business Park
Dock Road, Limerick
Tel: 061 225711 - Fax: 061 225712
Email: steve@mwcdsa.ie

Closing date for receipt of applications is Monday 9th July 2007.

Limerick Travellers Development Group is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from the Traveller Community.

SPIRASI’s Centre for Health Information and Promotion: Researcher

SPIRASI’s Centre for Health Information and Promotion wishes to recruit an experienced researcher to conduct a needs assessment of community based services available to minority ethnic communities in the Dublin Area. It is hoped that this research will inform and influence the work of the Centre for Health Information and Promotion and other organizations and statutory agencies working in this area to respond to and engage more effectively with New Communities.

The aim of the needs assessment is to identify and prioritise the needs of minority ethnic communities, learn from successful interventions and identify any gaps in service provision and/or barriers to successful integration.

The study should seek to:

Collate and review existing research in the area of study.
Provide a demographic overview of the area of study
Identify new Communities’ needs with respect to access to and appropriate use of health and welfare services
Explore barriers with respect to employment
Identify education and training priorities of minority ethnic community members
Consider housing needs
Identify any gaps with respect to social supports
Identify any additional supports or needs to facilitate a positive experience of integration.

It is envisaged that the research will be completed by November 2007. All proposals received will be assessed in respect of the use of a participative methodology, value for money, ability to deliver on time and previous experience and qualifications.

Please submit a comprehensive research plan, with detailed costings and timescale for the proposed study (to include administrative costs interpretation costs etc. and be inclusive of VAT) and a copy of your CV to:

Sharon McGuigan
Manager
Centre for Health Information and Promotion
SPIRASI
213 North Circular Road
Phibsboro
Dublin 7
01 8823533

The closing date for applications is 10 July 2007 and the selection decision will be communicated to all candidates as soon as this is made.

This research is funded under the Community Development Unit of the Department of Community Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.

Nasc, the Irish Immigrant Support Centre: 2 x Advocacy Officers

Nasc, the Irish Immigrant Support Centre would like to invite applicants for the following positions
2 x Advocacy Officers (Full-time)

The person will be responsible for the following duties:

Each Officer will run Nasc’s Drop in Service for 5 mornings or afternoons a week.
Each Officer will run two clinics per week – this involves supporting, advocating for, referring and advising clients on a one-to-one basis with a range of issues of a general and a legal nature
Handling any follow up work which arises from clinic work
Maintaining detailed records of clinic work and record of all client contact
Updating other staff members and board on key national policy developments relating to the work of the centre
Assisting in policy development in Nasc
Developing information services e.g. collation of informational booklets for clients, developing materials in answer to frequently asked questions, contributing to Nasc newsletter and other informational duties relevant to Nasc’s drop in services
Linking with other organisations and networks where appropriate and as directed by Nasc’s Director
Assisting in training new volunteers and staff from time to time
Representing Nasc at meetings or events as directed by the Director of Nasc and to reporting back on these meetings
Assisting, as part of a team, in responding to any other duties as they arise from time to time
Working with other staff in developing the Nasc Centre as a significant point of contact for Inward Migrants in Cork
Assisting, along with other staff, with the day to day running of the Centre

Person Specification

Extensive knowledge of asylum and immigration policies, practices and law
Extensive knowledge of social welfare and labour policies and law
Knowledge of Irish education and training systems and the Irish jobs market
Experience of dealing with clients on a one-to-one basis with a wide range of information and legal needs
Relevant third-level qualification including law, human rights, social sciences, development, human rights or related areas
Ability to support clients in a warm, friendly, non-judgemental manner
Strong problem solving skills
Strong writing and verbal skills – in English
Knowledge of a second relevant language is highly desirable
E
Ability to keep to deadlines
Understanding of ethical and confidentiality issues associated with this service
Record keeping and computer skills
Ability to work on own initiative and take full responsibility for allocated work
Comfortable working in a busy, dynamic, multi-cultural environment
Ability to communicate across culture and languages

This is a full-time position based on a three year contract.
Salary in the scale of Euro 34,000 - 36,000.
The Advocacy Officers will be responsible to the Director of Nasc.

Application is by CV and cover letter. Interested applicants should send application to
Gertrude Cotter, Director,
Nasc, the Irish Immigrant Support Centre,
Enterprise House,
35 Mary St., Cork

Late applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.

For further information phone 021-4317411.

Closing Date for Applications is: Wednesday 4th July 2007

Invitation to Tender for Study of Ethnic Minority Communities in Donegal

Health Service Executive - Donegal Community Services, is inviting tenders for a Study of Ethnic Minority Communities in Donegal.

Please email Elaine_t.robinson@mailb.hse.ie for the Terms of Reference if you are interested in tendering.

We require 5 copies of the tender submission.

Please note that envelopes should be clearly marked "Tender for Ethnic Minorities Study" and should be received in this office no later than close of business on Friday 29th June to myself at the above address.

Please direct any informal enquiries to this office.

Health Service Executive
Community Services
County Clinic
St. Conal's Hospital
Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

Tel: 074 9123757
email Maireb.oleary@mailb.hse.ie

Educate Together: Second-level Project Manager

Educate Together is seeking additional professional development staff to join a team that will make a decisive contribution to the reform of education in Ireland over the next few years. Educate Together is revolutionising Irish education by championing schools that are Rights-based, Inclusive, Child-centred and democratically managed.

We are expanding our primary school network of 42 schools and now commencing a programme to enter second-level education. If you are committed to the objectives of our philosophy of education and are interested in working with us in one of the positions below, we would like to talk to you.

Second-level Project Manager
This is a ground-breaking programme that will address the needs of thousands of children now graduating from Educate Together primary schools. The project also has the potential to make an important contribution to much-needed reform of the Irish second level system. Educate Together will be the first national body entering Irish second-level for many years and as such has a unique opportunity and responsibility to make a difference.

We are looking for a dynamic education professional to lead this exciting programme.

The individual whom we are seeking will have:

An extensive knowledge of second-level education in Ireland and/or overseas,

The ability to lead a small project team,
Energy, commitment, enthusiasm and vision,
An ability to evaluate and act on relevant research,
Ability to work well on their own initiative and as part of Educate Together’s management team,
Demonstrable inter-cultural awareness,
Proven organisational ability including knowledge of budgeting and finance,
Very good communication, interpersonal and IT skills.

Candidates may come from varied backgrounds, although familiarity and experience with leadership, management, innovation and reform in second level education will be essential. The ability to articulate the distinctive ethos of Educate Together, work well with team members and negotiate with educational stakeholders will be critical to the success of this post.

The salary for this role will be negotiable from a minimum of Euro 50,000 a year depending on experience. Terms will also be negotiable. A fixed term contract is currently envisaged but this post may evolve into a permanent position.

The Second Level Project Manager can be based more or less anywhere as long as regular attendance at Educate Together's offices in Dublin can be guaranteed. A significant element of travel and some evening and week-end work may be required.

For a detailed job description, please email: louise.daly@educatetogether.ie

Applications be in the form of a letter of application and CV (max 4 pages. It should be submitted by email (preferred) to secondlevel@educatetogether.ie
or post to:
Second Level Project Manager Application
Educate Together, H8a Centrepoint Business Park, Oak Drive, Dublin 12.
Tel: 01 4292500

Closing date for applications is 5pm June 29th.
Interviews will be held on July 11th.

Educate Together is a company limited by guarantee, a registered charity and an equal opportunities employer.

Educate Together: New Schools Officer

Educate Together is seeking additional professional development staff to join a team that will make a decisive contribution to the reform of education in Ireland over the next few years.

Educate Together is revolutionising Irish education by championing schools that are Rights-based, Inclusive, Child-centred and democratically managed. We are expanding our primary school network of 42 schools and now commencing a programme to enter second-level education.

If you are committed to the objectives of our philosophy of education and are interested in working with us in one of the positions below, we would like to talk to you.

New Schools Officer
We are looking for an energetic professional who will help us expand our network of primary schools. Establishing new Educate Together schools is an exciting task. Building our network is addressing a significant human rights deficit in Irish education and is a very rewarding and important job.

The individual whom we are seeking will have:

An ability to organize and empower voluntary committees,
Good management and negotiation skills,
An ability to articulate the aims and objectives of Educate Together,
An ability to interface well with the Department of Education and Science, local government and other educational providers,
Energy, commitment, enthusiasm and vision,
Ability to work well on their own initiative and as part of Educate Together’s New Schools team,
Demonstrable inter-cultural competency,
Very good communication, interpersonal and IT skills.

Candidates may come from varied backgrounds, although familiarity with the process of establishing primary schools in Ireland and/or working with voluntary committees and community development will be a significant advantage. The ability to work well with team members and people on the ground will be critical to the success of this post.

The salary for this role will be negotiable from a minimum of euro 35,000 a year depending on experience. A fixed term contract is envisaged for this position that may evolve into a permanent position.

The New Schools Officer will be based at Educate Together’s offices in Dublin. A significant element of travel within the State and some evening and week-end work may be required.

For a detailed job description, please email: louise.daly@educatetogether.ie

Applications
Applications should be in the form of a letter of application and CV (max 4 pages. It should be submitted by email (preferred) to newschools@educatetogether.ie

or post to:
New Schools Officer Application
Educate Together, H8a Centrepoint Business Park, Oak Drive, Dublin 12.
Tel: +353 1 4292500

Closing date for applications is 5pm June 29th.
Interviews will be held on July 12th.

Educate Together is a company limited by guarantee, a registered charity and an equal opportunities employer.

website: www.educatetogether.ie

Integrating Ireland: invitation to Tender for Project Evaluation

Evaluation of Organisational Development and Capacity Building and Mentorship Programme for Immigrant-Led Organisations.

A key aim of the plan is the organisational development, capacity building and mentorship, and as part of the aim of supporting the development of member organisations this particular project seeks to develop and empower immigrant-led organisations. This pilot project has been funded for one year by POBAL and aims to support capacity building of this key target group of organisations representing and working with immigrants.

There is a critical need for minority ethnic new communities to be supported in order to address poverty and social exclusion within their communities and their contribution to long-term integration. The on-going viability of community organisations representing and working with immigrants is fundamental to reducing marginalisation and facilitating the increased participation and integration of these communities in Ireland.

This programme aims to support the development of immigrant led groups and increase the potential for their establishment and on-going viability by providing support, advice, and training to organisations in the pre-development, start-up and growing development phases. II is facilitating the strengthening of their skills and their access to resources and funding to ensure long term sustainability. Structured mentoring and increased networking opportunities with other community organisations, local government agencies is also crucial in support the participation immigrant organisations in decision making, the local community and voluntary sector as well as supporting strengthened participation of immigrant led groups in Integrating Ireland’s broader organisational aims in the areas of policy, research, information and communication.

Any queries and further detailed information in relation to this tender should be addressed electronically to Monica Anne Brennan: regions@intgratingireland.ie (087 961 0897)
or Wilberforce Owusu Ansah wilberforce@integratingireland.ie (086 893 6840)

Closing date for receipt of tenders: 28 June 2007, 16.00 p.m.

Co-operation Fingal: Traveller Programme Co-ordinator

Co-operation Fingal invites applications for the position of full-time Programme Co-ordinator to the North Fingal Primary Health care programme.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the development, co-ordination and day-to-day organisation of the North Fingal Primary Health Care programme.

The successful applicant will have

Experience of working in community development, in particular work with Travellers.
Knowledge of issues relevant to Travellers in areas including health, education/training and accommodation.
Excellent communication & organisational skills
Good report writing & computer skills.
Experience of developing/implementing training programmes.
Experience of training delivery in IT Skills desirable.

The post will be offered on a full-time temporary contract, commencing immediately with the candidate based in Matt Lane Resource Centre, St Macullins Park, Matt Lane, Balbriggan. Salary in the region of €540 per week.

For full job description contact:
Co-operation Fingal on 01 8020484 or e-mail info@co-operationfingal.ie

To apply for this post, please forward a copy of your CV along with an A4 page highlighting the particular skills, personal qualities and experience you would bring to the post, including an outline of your reasons for applying for the post.

Applications must be submitted to the Manager,
Co-operation Fingal,
BEaT Centre,
Stephenstown Industrial Estate,
Balbriggan
or via email to info@co-operationfingal.ie

before 5pm on Tuesday 26th June 2007.
Interviews will take place on Tuesday 3rd July 2007.
All applications are treated in confidence.

This is a re-advertised post. Previous applicants need not apply.

Co-operation Fingal is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

EU Commission and Open Society Institute - Internships for Young Roma University Graduates

The European Commission, in cooperation with the Open Society Institute, offers internships for young Roma university graduates from all new EU member states (excluding Cyprus and Malta), Croatia, Macedonia, Serbia (including Kosovo), and Montenegro. The training periods involve work experience in one of the Commission’s departments.

The aims of the program are as follows:

to give Roma interns a general idea of the objectives and problems of European integration;
to provide them with practical knowledge of the working of Commission departments;
to enable them to acquire personal experience by means of contacts made in the course of their everyday work;
To enable them to further and put into practice the knowledge they have acquired during their studies or professional careers.

Eligibility

Nationals from all new EU member states (excluding Cyprus and Malta), Croatia, Macedonia, Serbia, including Kosovo, and Montenegro, who are of Roma origin may apply. Applications from women are encouraged.

Candidates must have completed a course of university education and obtained a full degree or its equivalent (for minimum national education qualifications required, see Annex 1 below) by the closing date for applications. Applications are only accepted if accompanied by a photocopy of the candidate’s degree certificate (or, in the absence of this document, an official statement from the university confirming the degree result; see Annex 2 (attached below) for list of university degrees sought by the EC services).

Preference will be given to candidates with proven experience in civil society work.

Working knowledge of at least English or French is required, as is ability to draft reports in one of these languages. Other languages would be appreciated.

Minimum computer literacy.

The age limit for interns is minimum 25. However, the selection committee may, if there is a good reason, make exceptions to this age limit at the candidate's request (in which case, a cover letter should be submitted with the application form). As the nature of the Commission’s in-service training program is aimed at young graduates at the beginning of their career, this age limit should not be considered to be discriminatory.

The internship scheme at the Commission is open to candidates who have not already benefited from in-service training in another European institution or body.

Time Frame

Five-month internship; starting date is October 1, 2007.

Job Description

Job description will be provided by the senior official (supervisor) to whom the intern will be assigned during the period of her/his in-service training. The supervisor will follow the intern work. It is expected that intern will participate in all the tasks of the team. The type of work will be equivalent to that of a junior executive-grade official, e.g. compiling information and documentation, organizing working groups, forums, public hearings and meetings, preparing reports and replying to queries, participation in team meetings, filing, linguistic revision of texts, etc.

The internship will give an opportunity to become acquainted/involved in activities related to Romani issues within the respective DG.

Practical Information

Trainees must hold upon their arrival proper permit/visa in relation to their country of origin as required by the Belgian authorities for 5-month tourist stay.

Accommodation expenses are included in the Open Society Institute grant. The stagiaires must find the accommodation themselves; however OSI will assist the interns in finding suitable accommodation. The EC will provide basic information guidance in the beginning stage.

Internship Grant-Financial assistance is provided by the Open Society Institute. The 5-month internship grant covers:

Travel expenses to and from Brussels/Luxembourg (using the cheapest available means of transportation); actual cost will be counted by OSI up to a maximum of 600 Euro.

Accommodation, subsistence, and health and accident insurance: 6,000 Euro (1,200 Euro/month).

Note: The Commission is not involved in budget management or making the relevant payments in relation to this program.

Deadline- Please send completed application form (attached below) by email or fax by July 15, 2007.

Contact Information

Brussels Internship Program
Roma Participation Program
Open Society Institute Budapest
Oktober 6 u.12
H-1051 Budapest Hungary
E-mail: rpp@osi.hu
Fax: +361 327-3841

Traineeship with ENAR

ENAR is currently recruiting for a trainee in the campaigning unit.

ENAR is convinced that traineeships give people the opportunity to familiarise themselves with working life, and help them to decide the direction they would like to take in the future. ENAR endeavours to provide an optimum learning environment to all of its trainees.

ENAR strives for an ethnic and gender balance in its staff. People from groups which are affected by racial, ethnic or religious discrimination are encouraged to apply for this post.

There is no remuneration for trainee positions.

Interested applicants should carefully read the guidelines for trainees, and send their application before midnight Sunday, 1 July 2007 to: Trainee Applications, ENAR, 43 Rue de la Charité, 1210 Brussels, Belgium, or by email to info@enar-eu.org

5. Recent Publications and Resources

Refugee Unite New Website Resource

Refunite.org has created a unique search engine designed to streamline and simplify the process of locating family members torn apart in their escape. An everyday convenience like the White Pages the West takes for granted; yet to a refugee in a foreign new world, to find anyone from back home often proves an insurmountable obstacle, especially since no central registry has been established to provide any form of interlinked communication. The international aid organizations have so far proven incapable of unifying their data, in addition to the millions of refugees that live under the radar. Most of them endure the knowledge that, somewhere, siblings, parents and other family carry on lives wishing, as they, that they could somehow be reunited.

Through the strength of the search engine, it is possible to seek via anything from country to county, last name to last known location, while the engine progressively and intelligently narrows the search, enabling virtually all with just a minimal knowledge of their origin to locate anyone matching their criteria: The power rests in the hands of the seekers and the sought. The core of Refunite.org is self-sufficiency: The success of this initiative rests upon the family members' desire to find each other

PICUM Guide: Undocumented Migrant Workers Have Rights! An Overview of the International Human Rights Framework

The Platform for International Cooperation on Undocumented Migrants - PICUM’s recently published guide, Undocumented Workers Have Rights!, explodes the myth that undocumented workers do not have rights and gives an overview of these rights in international human rights law. The publication costs €8 plus postage or can be downloaded in PDF format free of charge from their website www.picum.org.

Second Edition of EU Handbook on Integration Published

The first edition of the Handbook covered introduction courses for newly arrived immigrants and recognised refugees, civic participation and integration indicators. It was presented at the Ministerial Conference on Integration held in Groningen (NL) on 9-11 November 2004. The second edition of the Handbook on Integration provides a critical input to a core element of the European framework on integration, namely the implementation of the Common Basic Principles (CBPs). The CBPs aim to assist Member States in formulating integration policies and to serve as a reference for the implementation and evaluation of current and future integration policies. For further information go to:

europa.eu/...LongLink...

Legal Aid Board Launches Revised Web Site

The Legal Aid Board is pleased to announce that it will launch its revised and upgraded website. This revised website fulfils the Board’s commitment in its Corporate Plan to upgrade its website.

Key improvements to the website following this upgrade include:

Greater user friendliness
easier navigation
enhanced information on the Board’s services
downloadable application forms
improved access to Board publications, including leaflets, annual reports, the Board’s corporate plan, the Customer Charter and the Customer Service Action Plan.
A full Irish language version
detailed contact information for the Board’s Law Centres, Refugee Legal Service Offices, Refugee Documentation Centre, Private Practitioner Centre, and Head Office
Detailed location maps for law centres
Email contact address for Head Office (info@legalaidboard.ie)
Links to other relevant websites, including government websites

The web site is more user friendly, and enables easier access to information about the Board’s services than the previous web site. All of the Board’s information leaflets are available in both Irish and English. It also includes a downloadable version of the application forms for the Board services, together with information on financial eligibility. The site provides easy access to recent events such as press releases and publications, as well as more detailed contact information - including maps - for the law centres, offices of the Refugee Legal Services, the Refugee Documentation Centre and the Head Office. The site contains the Civil Legal Aid Act, 1995 and the Civil Legal Aid Regulations (which are made pursuant to the Act) as well as links to other relevant government agencies. Email contact facilities are available and an Irish version of the web site is available.

The web site address is as follows: www.legalaidboard.ie

EWL publication on Migrant Women in the EU

The European Women’s Lobby (EWL) publication "Equal Rights, Equal Voices - Migrant women in the European Union" is now available. This publication is the result of a three-day event organised by EWL in January 2007 in Brussels. It includes presentations made during the public seminar of the 19th of January 2007and the conclusions of the workshops in closed sessions which followed on 20-21 January. The report is available to download by clicking on the link below from the EWL website.

www.womenlobby.org/...LongLink...1817%20BR%20en%20MP01LR.pdf

New Website for the Irish Naturalisation & Immigration Service

The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) was established in 2005 in order to provide a ‘one stop shop’ in relation to asylum, immigration, citizenship and visas. The INIS is structured around a number of key areas – asylum, visa, immigration and citizenship processing, asylum and immigration policy, repatriation, and reception and integration. They also maintain close contact with the Garda National Immigration Bureau in relation to many aspects of work. They have recently launched a new website www.inis.gov.ie which covers information relating to the following services: visas, immigration, citizenship, asylum, repatriation, policy, statistics and legislation.

FAI's New Intercultural Football Plan - Many Voices, One Goal

The Football Intercultural Plan that will guide the FAI's Intercultural Football Programme over the coming years has a number of aims, including to Promote participation in football among minority ethnic and multicultural communities, Combat 'racism' in football and Contribute to the wider process of integration.

Contact the FAI for further information: www.fai.ie

OHCHR Releases New Annual Report

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has released its 2006 Annual Report, providing a detailed account of the increasing range and impact of its human rights work around the world.

For Further information got to: www.ohchr.org

From the Margin to the Centre

Capturing the Perspectives of Young People from European Minority Groups
Fridrich Christian (Ed.)

"From the Margin to the Centre" is the result of a 7 country EU-project for the development of teacher training and materials for the education of minority students across Europe. This book gives background information on the situation of the minority group from Austria, Cyprus, Finland, Poland, Portugal, Romania and Spain and then insight into the thoughts and perspectives of the minority children and youth themselves in their own words. The results are impressive: serious thinking, their challenges and hopes for the future. The book in its entirety is in English and German and each national section in the students' native languages: Roma, Greek, Finnish, Polish/Ukranian, Romanian and Spanish. The book provides materials which can be used in many ways by teachers, teacher trainers, guidance counselors, social workers, those interested in immigration and human rights and all interested in learning about those from other cultures. The book includes 7 languages and 2 CDs of the youth themselves. Go to: www.ier-publications.fi/

OECD’s Annual International Migration Outlook 2007

The 2007 edition of the OECD’s annual International Migration Outlook, with trends, analysis and statistics on international migration movements and policies, will be published at 11.00 a.m. Paris time (09.00 GMT) on Monday 25 June 2007. This year’s report will also include analysis on three issues: labour market integration of immigrants and their children in OECD countries; the challenges facing immigrants with higher-education diplomas to find jobs that meet their qualifications and skills; and the international mobility of health professionals to OECD countries.For further information go to: www.oecd.org

E-bulletin June 2007

Contents

Policy and Legislative Updates

Irish Developments

EU/International Developments

2. Upcoming Funding/ Awards

3. Events and Initiatives

4. Job Vacancies/Calls for Tender

5. Recent Publications and Resources