Irish Examiner view: Barriers to work for Ukrainians must be tackled

Lack of recognition of qualifications means many highly skilled refugees cannot work in the area in which they have trained.

Ukrainian refugees in Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare: Many refugees are unable to get work in their own profession and childcare is also an issue. Picture: Eamon Ward

Is it the case that the many genuine fears about Ireland’s ability to cope with the influx of an estimated 27,000 Ukrainian refugees are coming to fruition?

In recent days, it has emerged that large numbers of highly skilled Ukrainian refugees are being forced to work in less qualified jobs — or remain financially dependent on the State — because of bureaucratic potholes which have yet to be filled. Professionals such as doctors, engineers, and architects are having to accept lesser roles here because of non-recognition of their qualifications.