55% say immigration rate is too much

SIGNIFICANT numbers of Irish people are worried about “future levels” of immigration, in particular the job replacement threat, according to a new survey on racism.

However, Irish attitudes towards immigrants have improved immensely, with more people understanding and aware of the contribution immigrants make to society.

On the other hand, immigrants referred to the unpredictable weather, expensive and dirty cities, along with the isolation and helplessness many experience on arrival.

The IMS Millward Brown poll of over 1,000 people of all ages and various nationalities, was carried out for the National Plan Against Racism.

Among those concerned about future levels of immigration, 55% said there are too many immigrants, while 44% are worried about job replacement. Others referred to crime and the risk of wages being driven down.

The research also found the amount of people making contact with non- nationals has doubled since 2003.

Philip Watt, director of the National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism said there were definite signs of improvement in people’s attitudes. However, he warned against complacency, saying that some groups fall victim to xenophobia more than others.

In addition, while most foreigners seemed happy now, many have future concerns about offspring and challenges they will face.

Chairwoman of the action plan against racism, Lucy Gaffney said: “What struck me from the research ... Irish people are not intrinsically racist by nature.”

Increased efforts, she said, were needed to integrate immigrants, not only in the workplace and schools but also as political representatives and as members of the civil and public services.

Over the last three years, over 250,000 immigrants have come to live and work here. The report found respondents were concerned about controls on people entering the State.

People questioned about immigrants being integrated into society expressed concern that they would end up in crowded ghettos, which could become “hotbeds of unrest”.

Racism experts agree though, the same mistakes which have seen riots and fires spread across Paris, would not happen here.