Plea for protection of Filipino workers

Calls were made this evening for legislation to scrutinise the activities of employment agencies hiring Filipino migrants.

Fr Alan Hilliard, Director of the Irish Episcopal Commission for Emigrants, said the migrant is on the front line of economic exploitation.

He told European chaplains and pastoral workers for Filipino migrants that without clarity, a foundation will be set for uncertainty, chaos and instability.

“I appeal to policymakers to provide legislation to scrutinise the activities of employment agencies,” he said at the 7th Regional Consultation Meeting for the Filipino Ministry in Dublin.

“Such agencies often promise the highest standard of information and delivery of service to migrants, but then fall short in reality.

“Regulation and accountability is now required and should be guaranteed at a European level. At all times the interests of the migrant ought to be the priority.”

The 2006 Census found that 9,327 Filipinos were living in Ireland, with 7,426 of those in Leinster. The majority are employed as domestic workers or in health services.

Fr Hilliard said although Filipinos and their families contribute to the European church and society, the same stories of heartbreak and exploitation are to be seen and heard in most of the 190 countries of the world where Filipino migrants work.

He stressed that those living away from home should educate potential migrants, making them aware of the dangers they face with regard to illegal recruiters or abusive agents.

“The migrant is on the front line of economic exploitation,” continued Fr Hilliard.

“Migrants as a socio-economic category are amongst the first to learn that today jobs aren’t enough.

“There is a need to provide health care, access to education, pensions and housing.

“This need is not just one that is focused on selfish desire but is most often motivated by your love for your families.

“For those who choose to live here and increase the wealth of this society there is a need to provide a social contract.

“A growing reality in today’s world is the fact that there are thousands of people worldwide that have jobs but live in poverty.”