Study: Migrants need English classes

GOVERNMENT failure to provide adequate English language training for immigrants could open the way to “social isolation and marginalisation”, according to research to be launched today.

The Immigrant Council of Ireland will publish research carried out on its behalf into problems experienced by people moving here from overseas and with limited English language skills. The research was carried out by Dr Claire Healy and will outline problems faced by immigrants including accessing basic services such as the health system, education and housing. It will also stress the greater chances of exploitation faced by people with insufficient English.

The huge number of foreign nationals who have entered the country in the past decade has put an unprecedented emphasis on language skills, with many ethnic minority groups claiming there is a growing need for more flexible language classes.