Service will ensure that unaccompanied children referred by their social workers and aftercare workers are matched with pro bono legal help.

“This is yet another example of the many ‘accidental cruelties’ of the direct provision system. Nobody means to do harm and everybody does their job, sort of, but things seem to happen to persons in direct provision that don’t happen to other people because it’s a system without a heart.”

The human costs associated with the ban on seeking work are: boredom, isolation and social exclusion; obsolescence of skills and creation of dependency; and negative impacts on physical, emotional and mental health.

“We're calling on the Government to step up their efforts and give a timeline for when they will offer a home and safety to the remainder of the 4,000 people they have committed to taking in to Ireland.”

8,500 people survived thanks to the actions of the Irish Navy crews in 2015 and many more will be saved in the coming weeks.

Catholic patronage criticised by those concerned with getting their children into their school of choice for academic reasons or to join their friends.

2015 was the second busiest year since the Immigrant Council of Ireland started work in this area a decade ago.

The Christmas story gives us guidance on how to shape “our own shared humanity” looking to the future.

“No-one should have to fear a brick through their bedroom window, abuse when going to the local shop or discrimination of any form" - ICI.

The Immigrant Council of Ireland has highlighted the plight of stateless children, domestic violence victims and those fleeing war.

"There is nothing to slow down the shocking number of families becoming homeless."

There is broad acceptance across political parties about the links between organised crime & prostitution & the need to put these gangs out of business.

Sexual Offences Bill will be an opportunity to “wreck the business model” for pimps and traffickers and ensure that Ireland is no longer a safe haven for such crimes.

No convictions specifically against sex or labour traffickers in 2014 international report shows.

Immigrant Council of Ireland warns that family rights, access to work and education as well as citizenship need to be addressed by the State.

“I make a heartfelt appeal to the international community to react decisively and quickly to see to it that such tragedies are not repeated" - Pope Francis.

Assurances will be sought from all parties and independent candidates in the general election that they will address the concerns of migrants and their families.

Failure to introduce a fair immigration service is impacting on individuals and families on a daily basis.

Globally trafficking for sexual exploitation puts $99 billion into the pockets of criminals each year.

32-page Irish Independent supplement on the women who have helped shape the country.

“Prostitution is inherently violent towards women and girls” former US president warns.