If our society is a democracy, let immigrants be heard in the Seanad
Modern Ireland is a diverse republic with a significant presence of migrants. According to the last census there are over 544,000 people living in the republic who come from different countries. This makes 12% of the total population. The biggest national minority is Polish, with over 122,000 living in Ireland. All together, we have people from over 199 countries.
As President Michael D Higgins remarked at the Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland during its Annual Neighbourhood Week: “Ireland has, in recent years, become an increasingly multi-cultural society with people from many different ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds choosing to come and make their home here.
“This has furnished this country with a diverse mix of traditions, customs and philosophies. Our new Irish citizens have an important part to play in shaping and crafting our shared future; a future in which the many different cultures within our communities can come together and work together to offer their diverse and wide range of skills, talents and unique gifts to society as a whole and for the shared benefit of all”.
This multiculturalism is a challenge, but it also gives significant opportunities. Together we can exchange different experiences, can bring differing points of view, and work on solutions for problems from multiple angles and perspectives. Diversity is a value, which benefits the whole nation.
Ahead of next year’s general election, it is worth reflecting on the lack of political representation of migrants in Irish politics.
For in the same way as democracy without women is a half democracy, also a democracy without migrants is not a full democracy.
Political participation and civic engagement are an essential part of integration.
Political parties need to make further efforts to engage with migrant communities.
One solution is the appointment of candidates representing migrants to Seanad Éireann.
For the Seanad, as both a chamber of advice and reflection and where party politics reigns less strongly, lends itself to speaking for all of society.
The appointment of an independent senator who would not merely speak for migrants, ethnic groups and minorities, but be one herself, would be a powerful message of inclusivity.
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