Waterford New Communities Network have launched a new survey that details the experience of those who come from other countries to live in Waterford.
The survey was completed by 99 people who live in Waterford and originate from around the world. Most of the respondents have live in Ireland over seven years.
Although the term migrant is suggestive of people from countries with distant cultures to our own, the survey also included participants from Britain and the US.
The full list of nationalities that participated in the survey were Ukraine, Poland, Brazil, Romania, India, Sudan, Hungary, Nigeria, Pakistan, Spain, Australia, France, Britain and the United States.
While there is a majority of good will towards people from other countries and cultures in Ireland, migration and managing the inward movement of people into the country has become a controversial issue. This dilemma is partially created by success as Ireland becomes a more attractive place to live and work.
The survey launched by the New Communities Network helps to humanise the experience of those coming to live in Waterford. The simple and insightful comments it contains give insight not usually found in statistics or formal reports.
For example, when asked to describe what could be done to help new community members from other countries, participants said, “Being treated fairly, like a human being, not based on the colour of my skin”; “Having friends here and feeling welcome in all places”; and “feeling like part of the community.”
44% of participants said finding work or better work proved their greatest difficulty, 29% responded that feeling isolated and lonely was their greatest challenge, and 20% named discrimination or feeling unwelcome as their most significant issue.
A BLIND SPOT
The survey also highlighted that there is a lack of research data relating to the experience of newcomers to Ireland.
One of the more striking comments came from a New Community member who had lived in Ireland for over 20 years who said, “I am afraid to say I am Irish, but I am Irish.”
Another account came from a New Community member from a non-Irish family and regularly hears anti-migrant comments. She believes these remarks are spoken freely around her because she is white and can pass for native Irish.
The presentation also included images of “house the Irish” graffiti sprayed on council houses around Waterford.
Deputising for the Mayor, Cllr. Declan Barry, spoke at the event saying, “I’m delighted to be here today in support of a fantastic programme”.
“Waterford has been strengthened by the many people, cultures and traditions that have become part of its story. Today migrant communities continue to play an important role in the life of our City and County. Through their work, enterprise, cultural traditions, and community involvement, they contribute greatly to the energy, diversity and continued growth of Waterford.
“Representation, dialogue and collaboration between migrant communities, elective representatives, local authorities and wider stakeholders are essential in getting strong, connected and welcoming communities.
“Waterford is stronger because of its diversity and I look forward to seeing those connections and partnerships continue to grow in the years ahead,” added Cllr. Barry.
AARON KENT Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
