Irish teens down and out in London

The Federation of Irish Societies in Britain has warned young people not to move to England without getting proper advice.

Hundreds of teenagers are arriving in London every month with no pre-arranged jobs and end up living rough according to the federation.

Some of the young Irish turn to crime for money to make ends meet, a meeting of the British-Irish inter-Parliamentary Body in Belfast heard today.

Chairperson, Doctor Mary Tilki warned that young Irish people contemplating moving to England and London in particular should get advice before travelling.

“Many people come to the services of our affiliates with no where to live and with just a few pounds in their pockets or none at all.

I would strongly advise young people to get information from Emigrant Advice before they go,” she said.