A County Kerry born Columban priest has been honoured for his services to asylum seekers in Britain's second largest city. Columban priest Fr Jim Fleming (63), who is a native of Castleisland, has been named as a 'Local Hero' by the Birmingham Mail newspaper.
The award honours people for their willingness to help others, a trait the St Catherine's parish priest has displayed since moving to the parish from missionary work in Pakistan 12 years ago.
From his arrival in the parish Fr Fleming has dedicated his life to help failed asylum seekers and refugees. Using the languages he has learned during his missionary work, Fr Fleming took in failed asylum seekers who had been living on the streets and let them sleep in church buildings.
Later, when he became parish priest of St Catherine of Siena parish near the city centre, he started taking people into his own home and currently has two people from Eritrea living with him until they can find a way to support themselves.
To date, he has offered a bed for the night to more than 100 people who would otherwise be living on the street because they are not allowed to work in the UK and are not entitled to benefit payments.
Despite not having a car, Fr Jim travels across the city each day visiting sick people in Birmingham and Solihull. In recognition of his work, the Birmingham Mail newspaper recently awarded him a local hero award.
Jonathan Cheetham from the sponsors of the awards, said, “The work of Fr Jim Fleming is an asset to Birmingham, having returned from missionary work and now assisting our local people. He has gone above and beyond the call of duty to help those in need, visiting the sick, housing the homeless, assisting asylum seekers, young offenders and those with substance and alcohol problems. He is a true asset to the community of Birmingham and demonstrates true dedication to help those in need, our very own Local Hero.”
Fr Fleming will be presented with his award at a special ceremony in Birmingham in November.