Integration policies - Justify our land of céad míle fáilte

There are insufficient English language courses available in this country to meet the demands of migrants from non-English-speaking countries.

The lack of English language skills is a barrier to the proper integration of people, but this can readily be alleviated by meeting the demands for language courses.

The Immigrant Council of Ireland has called on the Government to do more to provide English classes and other opportunities for migrants to learn more about Irish society so that they can communicate properly and make a better contribution to our society.

Minister for Integration Conor Lenihan indicated yesterday at the launch of the research document On Speaking Terms that proficiency in English will be made a requirement for gaining Irish residency or citizenship in future.

This requirement must be based on a genuine desire to promote integration, which is necessary for continued economic advancement as well as social harmony. The Government must also ensure that sufficient courses are available for migrants to acquire the necessary language skills.

Over the past century and a half millions of Irish people have scattered around the globe in search of a living. We owe to ourselves and to our history to ensure that we facilitate proper integration.

We have always been proud of this country as the “Ireland of the welcomes”. Let’s ensure that we justify that boast.