Harris Launches Community Support Report in Bray

Tánaiste and Wicklow TD Simon Harris has launched a new report in Bray showcasing the supports being delivered to disadvantaged communities across the county.

Harris alongside Minister of State Jerry Buttimer and Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Melanie Corrigan, revealed the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2024 Annual Report and the New Arrivals Research Series at the Little Flower Hall.

SICAP is the Government’s social inclusion scheme, aimed to tackle poverty and exclusion across Ireland.

According to the report, more than 32,000 individuals and 3,100 community groups were supported during its first year. Of those, 1,995 people moved into employment while over 1,300 started their own businesses.

In Wicklow, SICAP is delivered through County Wicklow Partnership and the Bray and North Wicklow Area Partnership, with initiatives ranging from enterprise supports to community integration projects.

In Bray and Greystones, the focus has been on helping disadvantaged individuals access jobs or start businesses. While in Arklow, Wicklow Town and Baltinglass, programmes have centred on supporting refugees and international protection applicants by providing them with language classes, community workshops and other education opportunities.

The programme particularly emphasises promoting Traveller inclusion, with projects such as Safe Pass training, a Traveller Men’s Fitness course and a Gel Nail Technician course to boost their confidence and employability.

Speaking at the launch, Tánaiste Harris said the scheme was making “a real difference” in communities across Wicklow.

“I'm particularly proud of the work happening here in Wicklow, whether it’s helping the Traveller community gain new skills, supporting refugees and asylum seekers to find opportunities, or backing local people to start their own business,” he said.

Harris also praised the New Arrivals Research Series, describing it as a valuable tool to shape future Government policy on integration and inclusion.

Nationally, SICAP is co-funded by the Government and the European Social Fund Plus under the Employment, Inclusion, Skills and Training (EIST) Programme 2021–2027. Almost €49 million has been allocated for 2025, with an additional €10 million for New Arrivals supports.