Reccomendations: Louth Integration Strategy

RECOMMENDATIONS: LOUTH INTEGRATION STRATEGY 2014-2019

Author: Tosin Omiyale

Recommendations: County Louth Integration Strategy 2014-2019 Advancing social, economic and political inclusion of members of minority communities in Louth

i

This project has been supported by the PEACE III Programme, managed for the Special EU Programmes Body by Louth County Council 2014

ii

Forward

*********To be inserted by Louth Co Council

iii

Acknowledgement Louth Integration Strategy was funded by Louth County Council through the management of EU PEACE III programmes with the aim of building capacity of PEACE III target groups. We would like to acknowledge the commitment and impeccable management supervision of Louth Council Peace Secretariat and the funding support through the completion of the integration strategy. Our deepest gratitude to the members of integration planning steering committee for sharing their expertise in guiding the process of the integration planning and providing support when necessary. A worthy note of thanks and appreciation to all the participants that committed energy and time to engage productively in the integration planning sessions and voice their concerns and experiences on behalf of members of minority communities. We commend you for your community spirit. We would also like to thank statutory bodies and service providers, for their invaluable contribution toward finalising the proposed actions recommended in the strategy document. Special thanks to Garda Siochana in Louth, especially Chief Superintendent and the Superintendents in local electoral areas, for their outstanding effort and shown leadership through the period of this project. Louth Leader Partnership, Louth Volunteer Centre and LMEC were spectacular; particularly John Cortterell, Kayleigh Mulligan (Louth Volunteer Centre); Mary Kelly, Maurice McConville (Louth Leader Partnership) and Tinu Achioya. Your commitment and interest in inclusion of minority communities is impressive. Sincere thanks to Kenneth McDonnell and Jane Lijoka for their organisational and interpersonal skills used to ensure success across all the held planning sessions; your efforts were remarkable. Also, we would like to express our gratitude to the analysis team, especially Yohanca Diaz, Siyan Apesi, Joseph Ugonoh and Flora Okobi, whose exceptional knowledge and expertise benefited the analysis and interpretation of the data from the planning process. Finally, thanks to the staff of The Integration Centre that worked effortlessly in completing this strategy in a short period of time. Thanks to Justyna Szewczyk for supporting the integration planning process and Michele Brady for managing the project finance. Tosin Omiyale played a leading role in the delivery of this project and in completing the content of strategy document. Thanks to PÊter Szlovak, Killian Forde and Seamus O’Leary for their supervisory role and support in formulating the content of this strategy at different stages.

iv

Table of Contents FORWARD ....................................................................................................................................................... III ACKNOWLEDGEMENT .........................................................................................................................................IV GLOSSARY OF TERMS ........................................................................................................................................ VII ACRONYM ..................................................................................................................................................... VIII EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................................................ IX CHAPTER 1 ....................................................................................................................................................... 1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................ 1 BACKGROUND CONTEXT ..................................................................................................................................... 2 OVERVIEW OF PROJECT ...................................................................................................................................... 3 Aims of the Project ................................................................................................................................... 3 Project Steering Committee and Strategy Agreement ............................................................................... 4 Building the Capacity of Peace III Target Groups ....................................................................................... 5 SUMMARY OF LOCAL INITIATIVES DEVELOPED WITH FOCUS ON INCLUSION OF MINORITY COMMUNITIES IN COUNTY LOUTH ........ 5 CHAPTER 2 ....................................................................................................................................................... 9 INTEGRATION POLICY CONTEXT ....................................................................................................................... 9 EU INTEGRATION POLICIES AND FRAMEWORKS ...................................................................................................... 10 EU Common Basic Principles (2004)........................................................................................................ 10 The Stockholm Programme (2009) ......................................................................................................... 10 European Ministerial Conference on Integration: Zaragoza Declaration (2010) ....................................... 11 EC Handbook on Integration (2010)........................................................................................................ 12 National Policies and Reports ................................................................................................................. 12 Sector-specific Integration Strategies (2007 through to 2015) ................................................................. 14 Annual Monitoring Reports on Integration (2011 and 2013) ................................................................... 14 Alignment Report (2012) ........................................................................................................................ 16 Putting People First (2012) ..................................................................................................................... 16 Local Integration Strategies and ARDS.................................................................................................... 17 New National Integration Strategy (2014/ 2015) .................................................................................... 18 CHAPTER 3 ..................................................................................................................................................... 19 STATISTICAL PROFILES OF MINORITY COMMUNITIES ..................................................................................... 19 SUMMARY OF PROFILE CATEGORIES..................................................................................................................... 20 COMPARISON OF PROFILE ON MEMBERS OF MINORITY COMMUNITIES AT NATIONAL LEVEL AND IN CO LOUTH........................ 21 NATIONAL PROFILE OF MINORITY COMMUNITY POPULATION..................................................................................... 24 Scope of Ethnic Variance in Ireland ......................................................................................................... 24 Nationality Variance among Residents of Ireland ................................................................................... 25 Birthplaces Outside Ireland .................................................................................................................... 26 Linguistic Variance in Ireland.................................................................................................................. 27 Religious Variance in Ireland .................................................................................................................. 29 Gender and Age Profiles in Ireland ......................................................................................................... 29 NATIONAL STATISTICS ON MAIN AREAS OF INTEGRATION .......................................................................................... 30 Education .............................................................................................................................................. 30 Employment .......................................................................................................................................... 31 Social Inclusion ...................................................................................................................................... 32 Active Citizenship/ Participation ............................................................................................................. 36 PROFILE OF MINORITY COMMUNITY POPULATION IN CO LOUTH ................................................................................. 37 Scope of Ethnic Variance in Co Louth ...................................................................................................... 37 Nationality Variance among Residents in Co Louth ................................................................................. 38

v

Birthplace Outside Ireland Residing in Co Louth ...................................................................................... 40 Linguistic Variance in Co Louth ............................................................................................................... 42 Religious Variance in Co Louth ............................................................................................................... 44 Age Profile ............................................................................................................................................. 45 COUNTY LOUTH STATISTICS ON MAIN AREAS OF INTEGRATION ................................................................................... 46 Education .............................................................................................................................................. 46 Employment .......................................................................................................................................... 49 Social Inclusion ...................................................................................................................................... 51 Active Citizenship / Participation ............................................................................................................ 55 CHAPTER 4 ..................................................................................................................................................... 57 METHODOLOGY OF PLANNING PROCESS ....................................................................................................... 57 OVERVIEW OF PLANNING PROCESS METHOD ......................................................................................................... 58 PARTICIPATORY LEARNING AND ACTION METHODOLOGY .......................................................................................... 59 INTEGRATION PLANNING PROCESS ...................................................................................................................... 60 Stage 1: Initial Preparation and PLA-based Planning Sessions ................................................................. 60 Stage 2: Analysis of Data and Action Proposal Meeting .......................................................................... 65 CHAPTER 5 ..................................................................................................................................................... 69 FINDINGS AND RESULT OF STUDY .................................................................................................................. 69 INTRO TO FINDINGS AND RESULT ........................................................................................................................ 70 SUMMARY OF RESULT AND KEY FINDINGS ............................................................................................................. 71 Perception of Participants on Positive Integration Initiatives in Co Louth: ................................................ 72 Challenges to Integration Faced by Members of minority communities in Co Louth ................................. 72 Profile of Participants in Planning Process .............................................................................................. 73 ANALYSIS: POSITIVE PERCEPTIONS OF PARTICIPANTS ON INTEGRATION INITIATIVES IN CO LOUTH ........................................ 75 THEME 1: EDUCATION AND TRAINING ................................................................................................... 76 THEME 2: EMPLOYMENT AND BUSINESS ................................................................................................ 76 THEME 3: SOCIAL INCLUSION ................................................................................................................. 77 THEME 4: ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP AND PARTICIPATION ............................................................................... 79 CURRENT CHALLENGES TO INTEGRATION FACED BY MEMBERS OF MINORITY COMMUNITIES IN CO LOUTH ............................. 81 THEME 1: EDUCATION AND TRAINING ................................................................................................... 83 THEME 2: EMPLOYMENT AND BUSINESS ................................................................................................ 84 THEME 3: SOCIAL INCLUSION (access to services, social relations and anti-discrimination) ...................... 85 THEME 4: ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP AND PARTICIPATION ............................................................................... 91 COMPARISON OF RATED CHALLENGES IN URBAN AND RURAL AREAS REPRESENTED IN INTEGRATION PLANNING SESSIONS ......... 92 CHAPTER 6 ..................................................................................................................................................... 94 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ACTION PLAN: ...................................................................................................... 94 LOUTH INTEGRATION STRATEGY

2014-2019 ............................................................................................... 94

FRAMEWORK ON RECOMMENDATIONS TO ACTION PLAN .......................................................................................... 95 Theme 1: Education and Training ........................................................................................................... 96 Theme 2: Employment and Finance ........................................................................................................ 98 Theme 3: Social Inclusion (Access to services, anti-discrimination and social relations) .......................... 100 Theme 4: Active Citizenship / Participation ........................................................................................... 103 APPENDICES ............................................................................................................................................. 105 REFERENCES............................................................................................................................................. 110 PHOTOS OF PLANNING SESSIONS FOR LOUTH INTEGRATION STRATEGY 2014 ............................................................... 111

vi

Glossary of Terms

1

Ethnic Minorities – This term is used loosely in this strategy to refer to people who identify themselves as being a member of an ethnic minority group (e.g. Traveller Community or a community with immigrant roots). The term is used to refer to those who are seen as different from the ethnic majority population, while also recognising that any such set of attributes is but one facet of a person’s overall personal and social identity. Members of minority communities – Used specifically in this document to refer to the focus target groups for the strategy development, which are members of: migrant communities, Protestant communities and Traveller communities. Ethnicity – “Ethnicity has been defined as shared characteristics such as culture, language, religion, and traditions, which contribute to a person or group’s identity. Ethnicity has been described as residing in: the belief by members of a social group that they are culturally distinctive and different to outsiders; their willingness to find symbolic markers of that difference (food habits, religion, forms of dress, language) and to emphasise their significance; and their willingness to organise relationships with outsiders so that a kind of ‘group boundary’ is preserved and reproduced” (NCCRI 2007)2. Integration Approaches/ Models – A variety of frameworks are used in attempts to define useful approaches for integration. However, a blend of approaches seems to work best, with the emphasis varying in line with the time, place, situation and people involved. Popular models of integration include some or all of the following:  

 

Assimilation – Encouraging minorities to adopt the cultural norms and practices of the majority to the point that differences are expected to disappear. Multiculturalism – Recognising and celebrating difference and diversity in recognition of the inherent value of every culture and worldview. However, with little emphasis on interaction, distinct groups may tend to keep to themselves. Interculturalism – Building on the respect element of multiculturalism, the aim is to encourage interaction with a view to exploring and resolving differences. Contact Theory – Differences, and even conflict, between mutually exclusive communities can be overcome through contact, provided the following conditions are in place: equal status; common goals; opportunities to become acquainted; and the support of some higher authority recognised by both.

Race – This is an inaccurate term, often used to refer to ethnic identity, skin colour and/or ancestral area of origin. While, the term “race” is still used in legislation and elsewhere, it unfortunately creates the impression of some sort of physiological or genetic distinction and leaves the way open to misleading classifications that lie at the heart of racism. The term also undermines the recognition of commonalities that exist among all peoples as part of one human race. Racism – “Racism is a specific form of discrimination and exclusion faced by minority ethnic groups. It is based on the false belief that some ‘races’ are inherently superior to others because of different skin colour, nationality, ethnic or cultural background. The United Nations International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (CERD) defines racial discrimination as “Any distinction, exclusion, restriction or preference based on ‘race’, colour, decent, or national or ethnic origin which has the purpose or effect of nullifying or impairing the recognition, enjoyment or exercise, on an equal footing, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural or any other field of public life”.” (NCCRI 2007)3.

1

These working definitions are taken from The Integration Centre’s Policy Research Resources. This definition of ethnicity is taken from “Useful Terminology for Service Providers”, produced by the National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism (NCCRI) in March 2007. 3 Ibid. 2

vii

Acronym ARDS – Anti-Racism and Diversity Strategies (developed by local authorities within the parameters of the National Action Plan Against Racism 2005) CDB – City or County Development Board (Interagency body that oversees local economic, social and cultural development, set up under Local Government Act 2001 and to be replaced with new structures in 2014.) CIC/ CIS – Citizens Information Centre (At times there are a few CICs in a Citizens Information Service/CIS.) CO – County DES (HSCL) – Department of Education and Science (Home School Community Liaison programme) ENAR Ireland – European Network Against Racism Ireland EU – European Union EU PEACE III – European Union PEACE III Programme GAA – Gaelic Athletic Association HSE – Health Services Executive LMEC – Louth Minority Ethnic Consortium LMETB – Louth &Meath Education and Training Board NGO – Non Governmental Organisations OPMI – Office for Promotion of Migrant Integration (formerly Office of the Minister for Integration or OMI) PLA – Participatory Learning and Action PPN – Public Participatory Network TIC – The Integration Centre UN – United Nations

viii

Executive Summary Introduction Louth Integration Strategy was developed as a five-year action plan (2014-2019) to further improve the integration of minority communities in Louth, following an identified gap in informing the scope of issues faced by minority communities and implementing corrective measures through a partnership approach. The aim of this strategy document is to guide the progressive inclusion of members of minority communities, with an added advantage of building their capacity and also promoting positive relations in County Louth. In the past three decades, the settlement of families from Northern Ireland in Louth, has become a legacy of the past conflict and at the same time threatened peace and development in the region, due to political and religious incompatibilities of the past. Even more so, families with Protestant background now living in Louth are faced with discrimination and difficulty accessing services, as members of a minority group living in County. More recently, in the past ten years, County Louth has become increasingly diverse with many ethnic members of minority communities now well established in the County. According to Census 2011, 10.5% of the population have cultural backgrounds with roots in other countries and 0.6% are from the Traveller Community, representing a combined total of at least 15,000 people in Louth who identify with an ethnic minority culture. Due to this multicultural trend of different nationalities, faiths and cultures in the society, there has been identified issues around socio-cultural exclusion. This significant demographic change has impacted on the majority community and in some cases caused anxiety and unease. Integration, as applied in this document, is a two-way process of mutual accommodation involving the members of minority communities and the receiving society. According to McGinnity et al (2010, p.1), ‘when immigrants settle in a country they have to acquire a place in that society, both in the physical sense (a home, a job and income, access to educational and health facilities etc.) but also in the social, cultural and political sense’. Thus, the central approach to this strategy document is to facilitate integration by removing the barriers faced by members of minority communities, across four themes that indicates the concept of integration:    

Education and Training Employment and Business Social Inclusion (access to service, social relations and anti-prejudice) Active Citizenship/Participation ix

Planning Process of Louth Integration Strategy and Analysis Method The planning process was based on a Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) methodology. PLA is one of a family of participatory and generative research and planning methodologies that seek to motivate participants into action while simultaneously drawing on their local knowledge. PLA developed as a bottom-up approach to community development and planning in response to concerns about how research and planning was being done “on” people rather than “with” them. PLA is based on a very clear premise that members of local communities are the real “experts” in relation to their own socio-cultural settings and concerns. It endeavours to ensure that individuals and communities have a meaningful influence over decisions and processes that affect their lives. As a qualitative process, PLA also ensures that multiple perspectives are incorporated and taken into account in quite a free-flowing but structured way. Thus in a real sense it engenders ownership by respecting and building on their knowledge. Integration planning sessions were held across 10 locations in Co Louth, using the PLA technique. The following questions were posed to 116 participants, to identity the gaps to integration locally: 1. Based on your own experience, what helps people feel included and at home in Co Louth? 2. How easy is it for members of minority communities to access local services in Co Louth? 3. What are the main challenges or problems faced by members of members of minority communities in Louth? 4. Rate the challenges according to their importance to you /your organisation 5. What can be done to address these challenges/problems over the next five years in Co Louth? *** Note: Question 2 is a supplementary question, used as a thought stimulating and reflective exercise. This question is not included in the findings of the integration strategy.

The collected data from the 10 PLA-based planning sessions were sorted, categorised and analysed through the following process: 

Initial sorting of data



Collation of findings, proposed actions and analysis



Review of analysed findings and actions



Action planning meeting and review of action plan x

Summary of Key Findings from Louth Integration Planning Process All data collected across the planning sessions were collated, categorised and analysed under the four themes that relate to EU integration policy framework (Education and training, employment and finance, social inclusion and active citizenship/participation). The key findings from the collated data and integration planning questions stated above, were identified from the perspective of members of minority communities. The key findings are focused on the following: 1. Positive Initiatives around integration that has been developed in Louth 2. Current challenges to integration faced by members of minority communities 3. Importance rating of challenges by members of minority communities and service providers that participated in the planning process 4. Action plan for Louth integration strategy A. Positive Initiatives and Challenges to Integration in Co Louth Firstly, the table below indicates findings on positive initiatives and challenges to integration in Louth, as identified by 116 members of minority communities that participated in the integration planning sessions.

Summary of findings from Louth integration planning process 2014 Theme

Positive Initiatives to Build Upon in Louth

1. Education and Training

 

Educational opportunities Training on useful topics and skills

2. Employment and Finance

 

Ability to get jobs Starting new business

3. Social Inclusion



Availability of services and amenities Good, Safe and peaceful environment Government measures to address discrimination Welcoming and acceptance Ability to practice different religions Relationship with Family and Friends Interaction with other cultures Participation in community action and/or politics Opportunities for young people to get active Inclusion through sport

     4. Active Citizenship/ Participation

   

Challenges to Address in Louth  Language and communication difficulties  Education and training issues  Inadequate employment opportunities  Barriers to employment and business  Access to accurate information on services  Access to services, esp. housing, crèche & transport  Quality of services, esp. in health & policing  Social & cultural isolation; & lack of support  Negative attitudes & discrimination  Low participation in local politics and decision making structures  Low participation in service delivery

xi

B. Importance Rating of Challenges to Integration in Co Louth Secondly, the identified challenges to integration were rated by members of minority communities and service providers, in relative to the level of importance attributed to each categorised challenge. The rating simply reflects the subjective viewpoint of those involved in this planning process. In this regard it offers an insight into which challenges would be the most important to resolve during the five-year timeframe of this strategy in order to maximise the continued involvement of those who participated in this planning process. Overall, from the perspective of members of minority communties, the top four challenges of importance are:    

Access to services;especially in housing, creche and transport Negative attitudes and discrimination Language and communication difficulties Inadequate employment opportunites

According to service providers that attended the planning sessions, the top four rated challenges of importance form their organisational perspective are:    

Negative attitudes and discrimination Language and communication difficulties Access to accurate information on services Participation in politics and service delivery

Rating of challenges according to organisational or community perspectives in County Louth (2014) 0.0% 2.0% 4.0% 6.0% 8.0% 10.0% 12.0% 14.0% 16.0% 18.0% 20.0%

15.9% 15.3%

Language and communication difficulties Education and training

3.9%

Inadequate employment opportunities

3.2%

11.5%

Access to services, esp. housing, creche & transport Quality of services, esp. in health & policing

Social & cultural isolation; & lack of support

13.4%

5.8% 6.8% 6.4%

Barriers to employment and business Access to accurate information on services

8.3%

9.8% 6.9% 5.8% 6.3%

9.8% 17.6% 16.4%

Negative attitudes & discrimination Participation in politics & service delivery

% of Vote (Communities)

18.6%

7.5%

10.9%

% of Vote (Organisations)

xii

C. Action Proposal for Louth Integration Strategy The action proposal(2014-2019) for Louth Integration Strategy was developed as a response to the identified challenges to integration across the held integration planning seeions in Co Louth. The actions were proposed by participants and representatives from members of minority communities, and was later reviewed by staff of statutory bodies and service providers that attended the action planning meeting. As stated in the methodology chapter, the main aim of using PLA-based method in the planning process, is to provide opportunity for individuals from members of minority communities to have a meaningful participation in decisions and processes that affect their lives. The proposed actions are also divided into four themes that relate to EU integration policy framework (Education and training, employment and finance, social inclusion and active citizenship/participation. Overall, 24 actions were included in the action grid, each having expected oucomes. The complete proposed action plan grid can be viwed in chapter six of this document. Taking into consideration any future plans toward inclusion of minority communties in the county, the strategic aims for Louth Integration Strategy was specifically kept broad to guide future added actions. With this in mind, the following is a brief collation of the strategic aims that serve as guides for this strategy and the promotion of integration across the county. Strategic Aims of Louth Integration Strategy 2014-2019 THEMES

Education and Training

Employment and Finance

Social Inclusion (access to local services, antidiscrimination & social relations) Active Citizenship and Participation

STRATEGIC AIMS • To increase opportunity for English language learning and progression among adults with English difficulties

• To provide tailored educational courses and vocational training to ease employment difficulties in the labour market • To develop employment and job search support initiatives for members of minority communities to reduce vulnerability in job market • To encourage maximum participation of members of minority communities in business start-up schemes and explore other income opportunities • To develop local recording mechanism and responses for racist and discrimination incidents, with support for victims

• To improve communication and intercultural exchange between members of minority communities and the wider community, including services providers • To improve inclusion of members of minority communities in local decision making structures, and in civic and community engagement • To promote the importance and benefit of diversity locally, through a partnership approach with key organisations and agencies

xiii

Chapter 1 Introduction

1

Background Context County Louth is a border region in relation to Northern Ireland, with a history of the ‘troubles’ and settlement of individuals and families from the North of Ireland. In the past three decades, the settlement of families from Northern Ireland has become a legacy of the conflict and at the same time threatened peace and development of the region due to political and religious incompatibilities of the past. Even more so, families with Protestant background now living in Louth are faced with discrimination and difficulty accessing services, as members of minority group living in County. The Census data in 2011, revealed Louth as the third County in Ireland with the highest number of people born in Northern Ireland. A small percentage of these people declared religious activity with Protestant faith and Church of Ireland. More recently, in the past ten years, Irish society has become increasingly diverse with many ethnic members of minority communities now well established here. According to Census 2011, this ethnic diversity is also reflected in County Louth where 10.5% of the population have cultural backgrounds with roots in other countries and 0.6% are from the Traveller Community, representing a combined total of at least 15,000 people in Louth who identify with an ethnic minority culture. In addition, Co Louth host a higher number of Black or Black Irish than nationwide average, suggesting that black ethnicity has a stronger presence in County Louth than nationwide. Due to the multicultural trend of different nationalities, faiths and cultures in the society, there has been identified issues around socio-cultural exclusion. This significant demographic change has impacted on the majority community and in some cases caused anxiety and unease. Integration as applied in this document, is a two-way process of mutual accommodation involving the members of minority communities and the receiving society. Penninx (2010) argues that there are ‘two parties involved in integration processes: the members of ethnic minorities, their characteristics, efforts and adaptation; and the receiving society and its reactions to members of minority communities’. It is the interaction between the two that determines the direction and the outcome of integration process. According to McGinnity et al (2010, p.1), ‘when migrants settle in a country they have to acquire a place in that society, both in the physical sense (a home, a job and income, access to educational and health facilities etc.) but also in the social, cultural and political sense’. Thus, the central approach to this strategy document is to facilitate integration by removing the barriers faced by members of minority communities, while reassuring all of the benefits of closer and equitable relationships. 2

Overview of Project The Integration Centre was commissioned by Louth Peace III programme to work with members of minority communities and Peace III delivery agents in Co Louth to develop an integration strategy by September 2014. Target minority community members for this project are within the Peace III target groups, which include Protestant community and Church of Ireland, Irish Travellers, migrant communities and the Muslim community in Co Louth.

Aims of the Project The overall aims of this project are:   

  

Establish a project steering committee and agree terms of reference for the project Propose, review and agree upon an integration strategy planning process design with the project steering committee Coordinate a participatory research and planning process with the members of members of minority communities in County Louth, with a view to developing a local integration strategy Document, review and finalise a local integration strategy with recommendations for integration action plan Establish an active integration forum which is representative of members of minority communities Ensure the integration forum has clear vision, mission, goals and structure, all of which is outlined in an agreed terms of reference that will be formulated with integration forum participants

The focus of the integration forum is to create an active dialogue space for the growing members of minority communities in Co Louth, to act as a vehicle of advocacy on issues raised by members of members of minority communities and to liaise with local authority community development structures in Co Louth. At the end of the completed Integration strategy, it is envisaged that the Integration Forum will also continue to liaise with the local authorities to ensure the implementation of the Integration Strategy for Co Louth. In summary, the Integration Strategy is a recommended long-term action plan for Co Louth Local Authorities, prioritized to address the current needs of minority community groups. The integration strategy is completed through series of organised participatory learning and action-based planning process in target areas in Co Louth, engaging members of the members of minority communities and key stakeholders in a participatory assessment of the current challenges faced by minority groups residing in

3

Louth, and the positive initiatives that have benefited members of minority communities since commencement of Peace II and Peace III programmes in Louth.

Project Steering Committee and Strategy Agreement At national level, and with some positive influences from international policy, numerous strategies and policy documents have emerged in recognition of the demographic diversity that is now a significant part of this society. One policy of note was Planning for Diversity: The National Action Plan Against Racism. Published in 2005, this plan aimed to encourage local responses that would be framed within the context of longterm strategies in each of the 34 local authority areas around the country. Progress was slow initially, but has picked up in recent years with some initial encouragement from the Office for the Promotion of Migrant Integration (formerly OMI when the newly appointed Junior Minister for Integration was still in place from 2007 to 2011). The Integration Centre has been involved in developing numerous integration strategies at local authority level in recent years; and one of our approach is to consult with local groups by establishing a project steering committee. The project steering committee for the development of Louth Integration Strategy was establish at the beginning of the project in June 2014. The Committee consisted of 16 members with diverse enriching expertise, including local key stakeholders. A project terms of reference was agreed with the steering committee members, detailing the integration planning process, milestones, possible methodology and performance indicators for analysing integration. The role of members of the steering committee was to: • • • • • • •

Guide and support the planning process of the project as a local key stakeholder in Co Louth Ensure project objectives align with the interest of minority communities represented in Co Louth Peace III target groups Monitor project performance through provided updates on the outlined deliverables and milestones Identify potential challenges with the objectives and process of the project, and provide suggestions where applicable Participate as a member of the new formed Louth Integration Forum Support the recruitment stage of the Integration planning process and the Participatory Learning in Action(PLA) planning sessions Agree terms of reference for the delivery of the project

4

Building the Capacity of Peace III Target Groups This project fits into the Peace III priority of capacity building and further enhances other ongoing local Peace III programmes undertaken by Peace III delivery agents such as LMETB capacity building programme for ethnic minority groups (Co Louth VEC), Louth Minority Ethnic Consortium integration of target communities programme, and Louth County Enterprise Board’s Ethnic Entrepreneur Programme, provision of training for diversity leaders, youth peacebuilding and networking programme. The planning process for the project highlighted current concerns from members of minority communities, and provided the opportunity to collectively plan feasible actions that can support the inclusion of these groups, through an agreed meaningful integration strategy. The result of the planning process outlined existing positive initiatives and challenges that affects members of minority communities. In addition, the strategy gives priority to actions that will build the capacity of target groups and provide opportunity for cooperation and positive relationship building between these groups and members of the wider community.

Summary of Local Initiatives Developed with Focus on Inclusion of Minority Communities in County Louth Local and community services in Louth are available and often accessible to the public, but experience of difficulties may be prevalent among minority communities for different reasons. As a measure to improve access to services, there are supporting initiatives developed by statutory bodies and service providers in the past, or are currently planned to benefit minority communities. However a minimal number of these measures are centred on the needs of minority communities. The local initiatives below are actions aimed to serve minority communities and their inclusion in Louth. It is worth noting that some of these initiatives were implemented within a period timeframe and as such not available continually for access.



County Louth Anti-Racism and Diversity Plan:

The Social Inclusion Unit of Louth Local Authorities developed Louth Anti-Racism and Diversity Plan (ARD Plan) in 2007. This plan covered actions to be achieved from 20072010, to eliminate all forms of racism toward ethnic minorities, including the Traveller

5

community residing in Louth4. Considering the population increase of ethnic minorities in County Louth, which coincided with the experience of prejudice, the action plan put forward measures in the areas of equality policy, diversity and combatting racism. Some of the objectives of the ARD plan are to raise awareness of racism, promote an inclusive organisational ethos, to raise awareness of cultural diversity and the challenge of interculturalism in media, arts, sports and tourism in co. Louth and to achieve effective participation of ethnic minorities in Irish society in political, community and local development processes. 

Louth PEACE III Programme

The Louth Peace Programme5 is EU funded and managed by Louth County Council with the committed aim of progressing towards a peaceful and stable society and promoting reconciliation in Co Louth and across the border. Programme action plan has been inclusive of protestant faith community, and more recently in 2008, is extended to ethnic minorities with the provision of funding for local and cross border projects. To reinforce commitment to minority communities, strategic priorities of the peace plan include challenging attitudes towards sectarianism and racism, to support conflict resolution and mediation at the local community level and building diverse communities. Currently, a number of projects with significant outcomes beneficiary to minority communities have been completed through the Louth Peace Programme. Some of the indicative programme activities and projects are: addressing capacity deficits for minority groups in combating sectarianism and racism, addressing institutional sectarianism and racism, promoting positive relations between new and indigenous communities, Challenge of Change project, capacity building projects and Integration projects.



Social Inclusion & Community Activation Programme

The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme is newly developed by Louth Leader Partnership with the aim to tackle poverty, social exclusion and long term unemployment through local engagement and collaboration between disadvantaged individuals, marginalised target groups, community organisations, public sector agencies and other stakeholders. The objectives of the programme are mainly in stakeholder engagement, educational progression through lifelong learning opportunities and to improve work readiness and access employment/self – employment/social entrepreneurship. Other past programme initiatives, buttress on

Taken from Louth ARD Plan(2007). Full version is available at http://www.louthcoco.ie/en/Services/Library/Library-Policies/Anti-Racism-and-Diversity-Plan-forLouth-English-version.pdf 4

5Peace

III Strategy and Plan 2008-2010; Co Louth Peace and Reconciliation Partnership. See more programme information at http://www.networkforpeace.org/

6

work with minority communities in capacity building and mobilisation. Funding opportunities is also secured and provided to implement activities to support diversity and intercultural initiatives for young people and adults. In 2011, Louth Leader Partnership supported Travellers through its social inclusion programme working partnership with Irish Travellers Movement in Louth to develop Louth Traveller Movement. A small percentage of minority communities have been able to set up businesses through direct start up grants or access Social Protect grants for the same (for more information see www.louthleaderpartnership.ie). 

Equal Opportunities and Cultural Diversity through Volunteering

Louth volunteer Centre engage with various members of minority communities that are either volunteers, members of voluntary organisations, or wish to volunteer. Normally, initial contact with clients from minority community involves providing help and support in finding volunteer roles in the local community. The Volunteer Centre also promotes equal opportunities and cultural diversity in the community and voluntary sector and encourages other organisations to do the same. Short term activities (subject to funding) are put in place to support positive relations in the community and integration through volunteering and civic engagement. A booklet was developed for organisations in Louth to improve understanding around the advantages of a diverse community and benefits involving migrant volunteers in local community groups. Future plans are in place to commence diversity awareness training to community groups and agencies in 2015 (for more information see www.volunteerlouth.ie).



Information and Advocacy Services

Information on public services and entitlements are readily provided to the public through access to Citizens Information Centres in Co Louth. Ethnic minority communities tend to use more of advocacy services provided by Citizens Information Centre through outreach clinics, particularly around receipt of entitlements and advise on other immigration issues. Information on employment, training, education, and housing (etc) is available to improve public awareness on these services locally and nationally. Other Non-profit and private agencies also provide information and advocacy services in measure to available resources. Some agencies have been forced to close down services due to cutbacks and limitation of funds. In Drogheda, Culture Connect is a key voluntary organisation in contact with ethnic minorities and provides information and advocacy services, English language classes, translation and interpretation services, and immigration advice to ethnic minorities. Cultural diversity activities are also organised when funding is available (for more information see www.citizensinformation.ie, www.cultureconnect.ie).

7



6Capacity

Building of Ethnic Minority Groups

LMETB (formerly known as Louth VEC) completed a capacity building programme from 2009-2013, funded through the EU Peace III programme and managed by Louth County Council. This programme was in two phases. In the first phase, training was offered to ethnic minority groups to build capacity and leadership skills, to enable these communities mobilise and support their own people group, and to engage more actively with the wider community. Training and mentorship support was given in developing skills, developing organisational structures and developing practical support to enable further development of skills and structures. The second phase of the programme is the ‘Diverse Leaders Project’, aimed to:  Increase participants capacity, skills, knowledge and competencies to address issues of racism and sectarianism  Increase participants engagement and enhance their working relationships across traditional boundaries  Implement groups projects and initiatives through the programmatic strand  Increase groups abilities to apply and manage funding At the completion of the programme, participants were able to develop a strategic planning to guide service provision and support to their own community or other ethnic minority groups. Some of the beneficiaries of this programme are: The Muslim Community, Louth Traveller Movement and Culture Connect.



Integration of Minority Communities’ Programme

A project led initiative implemented from 2012-2014, with the aim to bridge social cohesion of different communities across different levels in the society and advance inclusion of ethnic minorities through social inclusion events, training and activities. Local organisations, institutions, schools, agencies, voluntary groups and community groups were provided with funding, resource allocation and support to develop relevant events and projects in consonance with the aim of creating a greater intercultural exchange and understanding, awareness of the various cultures in Louth, and building positive relations at the local level towards a peaceful, and inclusive society. The programme was managed by Louth Minority Ethnic Consortium and awarded funding through Louth County Council, under the EU Peace III programme. Louth Minority Ethnic Consortium (LMEC) also delivered training and workshops to groups and organisations on integration, anti-racism and understanding diversity. In the past LMEC

Taken from County Louth VEC’s Peace III project: Building the Capacity of Ethnic Minority Groups(2011), Diverse Leaders Evaluation Project; LMETB(2013) 6

8

has also carried out projects to empower and develop sustainable ethnic minority led organisations in County Louth, including capacity building (for more information see www.lmec.ie).

Chapter 2 Integration Policy Context

9

EU Integration Policies and Frameworks7 EU Common Basic Principles (2004) Eleven Common Basic Principles, often referred to as CBP, were authored by R. Pennix and were designed to make clear the obligation, of each member state, to work with and act for a shared agenda of integration. These principles for immigrant integration outline the process by which immigrants, both individually and collectively, become a valued part of society. The 11 principles are outlined in “A Common Agenda for Integration” (2005: 389), but can be summarised as follows:        

Integration is a dynamic two-way process of mutual accommodation Respect for the values of the European Union Knowledge of host society language, history and institutions Emphasis on access to employment, education, goods and services (public and private) Dialogues between EU member state citizens and immigrants Participation of immigrants in the democratic process Guaranteed respect for diverse cultures and religions; and Developing clear goals, indicators and evaluation mechanisms to evaluate integration processes and exchange information

The Stockholm Programme (2009) The Stockholm Programme provides a roadmap for EU progress in the area of justice, freedom and security for the period 2010-14. It contends that a coherent policy response is required in order to address the challenges of Europe. In this light a framework has been designed to monitor integration policies through a number of indicators within each of the following broad areas: 





Employment: This acknowledges the economic value of a well-integrated migrant work force; highlighting some key barriers to integration, such as the recognition of foreign qualifications; and declares the intent of each EU member state to overcome these restrictions. Education: The centrality of education in creating a successful and active immigrant population is identified. It highlights, however, a current deficit in the educational attainment of migrants. Having pinpointed some of the root causes of this deficit, such as language difficulties and low levels of parental involvement in children’s studies, it commits to addressing the situation. Social Inclusion: Immigrants must have access to both public and private goods on a basis equal to that of local citizens; indicators proposed in

7

These summaries are taken from The Integration Centre’s Policy Research Resources and have also been used in other Local Authority level integration strategies where relevant.

10



relation to social inclusion cover a wide range of areas from poverty levels to health and housing. Active Citizenship: Initiatives should be encouraged, which bring together both immigrants and local citizens in active participation in local communities. Civil society is recognised as being a key vehicle for the success of the two way process of integration.

A number of indicators are proposed under each of these areas so that progress in terms of integration policy and practice could be assessed consistently across all EU member states.

European Ministerial Conference on Integration: Zaragoza Declaration (2010) A declaration on integration was made at an EU Ministerial Conference held in Zaragoza, Spain on 15th and 16th April 2010, which resulted in the drafting of this document. A comprehensive list of European Council conclusions, principles, agendas, pacts and communications dating back to 2002 are outlined in this declaration. They give evidence of the commitment of Ministers from all EU Member States to “promote integration as a driver for development and social cohesion by incorporating integration issues in a comprehensive way in all relevant policy fields”. The declaration gives particular attention to the following areas: •

•

•

Education and Employment: This section highlights the need to develop integration policies which are adapted to the labour market, rights of access to employment, new ways of recognising qualifications, and developing training to help immigrants access the labour market. Comprehensive Participation – Diverse Districts: This section emphasises “the role of local authorities and cities in dealing with intercultural challenges and developing and implementing integration programmes.” It calls on local governments to better manage diversity and combat racism, and to invest in districts with a high immigrant concentration. Evaluation of Integration Policies: This section calls for core indicators in employment, education, active citizenship and social inclusion for monitoring integration policies.

In terms of participation, the declaration emphasises “the role of local authorities and cities in dealing with intercultural challenges and developing and implementing integration programmes”, as well as managing diversity and combating racism more effectively. In an annex to this report, there is a list of 15 core indicators under the four broad areas agreed in the Stockholm Programme (2009). It is also worth noting that in July 2011, a European Agenda for the Integration of NonEU Migrants was designed by the European Commission. The agenda aims to increase economic, social, cultural and political participation by immigrants, with an emphasis on local action, and highlights barriers that prevent the EU fully benefiting from the 11

potential offered by migration and the value of diversity. The potential role in the integration process of countries of origin is also examined. 8

EC Handbook on Integration (2010) The content of this handbook was elicited from 14 technical seminars, which aimed to develop co-operation and the exchange of information, within and between the national contact points for Integration across Europe. These seminars also gained the experience and input of integration experts from Canada, Australia, Norway, Switzerland and the USA. The third edition of the Handbook on Integration for Policy-makers and Practitioners was written in 2010 by the Migration Policy Group on behalf of the European Commission. This edition broadens prior perspectives to address issues of public perception and identity. It examines in-depth: (1) European exchange of information and good practice; (2) mass media and integration; (3) awareness raising and migrant empowerment; (4) dialogue platforms; (5) acquisition of nationality and the practice of active citizenship; (6) immigrant youth, education and the labour market. The two earlier handbooks focused on: the introduction of immigrants; civic participation and indicators; mainstreaming integration; housing; economic integration; and integration governance. These three handbooks are the main drivers of the exchange of information, along with a new network of European cities called “Integrating Cities” and a newly developed European Website on integration (www.integration.eu), which acts as a platform for networking on integration. Integration stakeholders from both governmental and non-governmental agencies are encouraged to create and share knowledge in the form of documents or good practices using this website. The European Commission also has an “Immigration Portal” for those wishing to migrate to an EU country which lists member states, supports organisations, and covers immigration law, statistics and reports (http://ec.europa.eu/immigration/).

National Policies and Reports 9 •

Planning for Diversity – The National Action Plan Against Racism (2005)

The primary focus of Planning for Diversity – The National Action Plan Against Racism (also known as NPAR) is to “provide strategic direction to combat racism and to develop a more inclusive, intercultural society in Ireland based on a commitment to inclusion by design, not as an add-on or afterthought, but based on policies that promote interaction, 8

For further information on EU actions and instruments around integration, refer to the following website http://ec.europa.eu/ewsi/en/EU_actions_integration.cfm 9 These summaries are taken from The Integration Centre’s Policy Research Resources and have also been used in other Local Authority level integration strategies where relevant.

12

equality of opportunity, understanding and respect.” It was developed by the Irish Government following commitments made at the UN World Conference Against Racism in South Africa in 2001 and focused on the period 2005 to 2008. The framework has five objectives, which are as follows: (1) effective protection and redress against racism and other forms of discrimination; (2) recognition and awareness of diversity; (3) full participation in Irish society; (4) economic inclusion and equality of opportunity; and (5) accommodating diversity in service provision. This plan was to be delivered in a “whole system approach” the key elements of which are: mainstreaming; targeting; benchmarking progress; and the engagement of key stakeholders to support the implementation of the plan. Under the National Action Plan, a number of local strategies were supported to encourage greater integration at a local and sectoral level. The ‘Anti-Racism and Discrimination Strategies’ (ARDS) and ‘Integration Strategies’ stem from this. The time frame of this action plan has passed; nonetheless it continues to inform the work of statutory and non-statutory agencies and so does not necessarily require renewal. In November 2011, the current Minster for Justice, Alan Shatter (TD) confirmed that the Government does not intend to develop a second national action plan against racism, noting the following: “The National Action Plan against Racism 2005-2008 was very ambitious and wide ranging in its scope. Since 2005, there has been a substantial penetration of anti-racist policies, programmes and activities and awareness raising initiatives. The focus is now on the continued implementation of the sectoral strategies which flowed from the Plan.” However, the ECRI Report on Ireland, adopted in December 2012 by the European Commission, does suggest more needs to be done in this area.

•

Migration Nation (2008)

This national policy statement on integration strategy and diversity management, Migration Nation was launched by the then Minister for Integration, Conor Lenihan (TD), in 2008. As a government statement on integration it emphasises the need for a local focus to integration in practice and points out that “integration lives and breathes, and indeed dies, at the level of community (2008: 22).” The document promotes a “whole of government” approach to integration policy development. Its key priorities are: (1) a clear commitment to immigration laws; (2) a formal pathway to permanent residency and citizenship; (3) a streamlined asylum process; (4) specific funding from government and the philanthropic sector to support diversity management in local authorities, political parties, sporting bodies and faithbased groups; (5) citizenship and long-term residency to be contingent of proficiency of skills in the spoken language of the country; (6) more targeted support for teachers and parents in dealing with diversity; (7) enhanced institutional and legislative measures to combat exploitation and discrimination; and (8) new structures to assist and reflect the changed dynamic of Ireland, with specific reference to a standing Commission on 13

Integration, a Ministerial Council on Integration, and a Task Force to establish future policy needs. In relation to the proposed new structures, Ministerial Councils were convened once in each of four regions in October/November 2010, but have not reconvened since. The other two proposed bodies were not set up. The key principles that underpin this Government strategy on integration are: (1) a partnership approach between the government and NGOs and civil society bodies; (2) a strong link between integration policy and wider state social inclusion measures, strategies and initiatives; (3) a clear public policy focus that avoids the creation of parallel societies, communities and urban ghettoes; and a mainstream approach to service delivery to migrants; and (4) a commitment to effective local delivery mechanisms that align services to migrants with those for indigenous communities.

Sector-specific Integration Strategies (2007 through to 2015) The past decade has also seen the development of a host of sector-specific integration strategies, aggregating the goals of a number of national service providers in the areas of health, education, employment, policing and culture. These strategies were developed using broad consultative processes and inform the work of service providers responding to the specific needs of particular groups. While each strategy has its own unique principles and aims, each one sought to provide equal, indiscriminate access to services for all clients, identified barriers to achieving this goal and envisioned an environment in which new ethnic members of minority communities were empowered to contribute fully to this society in which they live. The following sector-specific integration strategies have been developed in recent years and can be found on websites of the relevant statutory body:      

National Intercultural Health Strategy (2007-2012) Action Strategy to Support Integrated Workplaces (2008) An Garda Síochana’s Diversity Strategy and Implementation Plan (20092012) Cultural Diversity and Arts Strategy (2010) Intercultural Education Strategy (2010-2015) National Strategic Plan on Early Childhood Care and Education (20112013)

Annual Monitoring Reports on Integration (2011 and 2013) Commissioned by The Integration Centre, and written by the ESRI, these annual reports track Ireland’s progress on integration and identify models of good practice in integration planning. The core indicators, and the findings within them, are modelled on indicators chosen by the Zaragoza Declaration (2010) to compare integration progress across EU Member States. The four indicator areas examined are: (1) employment; (2) education; (3) social inclusion; and (4) active citizenship. Copies of this and future Monitoring Reports can be downloaded from the “Publications” section of 14

www.integrationcentre.ie. Table2.1 below brings together the key indicators from the second and third of three annual reports published to date.

Table 2.1: Key indicators from Annual Monitoring Reports on Integration 2012/ 2013 Key indicators of integration at a glance

2012

2013

Irish

Non-Irish

Irish

Non-Irish

58.2% 14.7% 68.2%

58.9% 18.5% 72.3%

59.3% 13.2% 68.3%

58.9% 18.1% 72.0%

48.1%

53.5%

49.6%

50.4%

10.5%

16.8%

6.4%

8.7%

527

English speakers: 529 Non-native English speakers: 506

503

English speakers: 508 Non-native English speakers: 499

€17,731

€18,318

€17,105

16.4% 7.8%

16.0% 6.8%

15.5% 7.4%

82.6%

89.7%

82.4%

90.8%

77.9%

28.0%

76.0%

26.6%

1. Employment (working age) Employment Rate Unemployment Rate Activity Rate 2. Education Share of 25-34 year olds with tertiary educational attainment Share of early leavers from education (20-24) Mean achievement scores for 15 year olds in English reading (2012)

Mean achievement scores for 15 year olds in maths (2012) 3. Social Inclusion Median annual net income (needs adjusted) “At risk of poverty” rate “Consistent poverty” rate Share of population (age 16 and over) perceiving their health as good or very good Proportion of households that are property owners

€18,70 9 14.5% 6.1%

4. Active Citizenship Annual citizenship acquisition rate Ratio of non-EEA nationals who ‘ever’ acquired citizenship to estimated immigrant population of non-EEA origin Share of non-EEA nationals with ‘live’ permissions who hold long-term residence Share of immigrants among elected local representatives

7.4%

16.8%

21.2%

31.3%

6%

4.8%

0.2%

0.2%

15

Alignment Report (2012) The Final Report of the Local Government/Local Development Alignment Steering Group was published in March 2012, in addition to the interim report of November 2011, at the request of Minster for Environment, Community and Local Government. Together these reports provide a series of recommendations in relation to the role of local government in pursuing local and community development. Among the recommendations of the group was the development of a cross-governmental, cross-departmental approach to local and community development. This proposed alignment process, combined with local government reform announced later in 2012 in Putting People First, indicates that Local and Community Plans are to be developed by the newly established Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) of each local authority area, setting out an integrated approach to community development programmes supported at all levels of government. A number of LCDCs have been established in some pilot areas since 2013, with full rollout expected after the next Local Government Elections of May 2014. Given the significant demographic changes that have occurred in Ireland over the past decade or more, it will be essential that a long-term and strategic approach to integration will be incorporated into such Local and Community Plans that LCDCs develop at local authority level.

Putting People First (2012) Putting People First is an action plan for local government reform spearheaded by the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government and published in October 2012. This policy document involves “the most fundamental set of changes in local government in the history of the State... making our political funding system more transparent; increasing the participation of women; reducing the number of TDs; establishing the Constitutional Convention; and introducing legislation to address conflicts of interests, lobbying procedures and to strengthen our planning system”. The Action Plan to 2014 covers four main themes: •

•

•

•

Structures: Local Government will be “streamlined” with, for example, a reduction in the number of local authorities from 114 to 31 City and County Councils with integrated districts. Funding, Accountability and Governance: Local services and local authorities are to be funded directly by an equitable property tax, creating a service more responsive to residents. Economic Development and Job Creation: Local government will have an enhanced economic role in the community with a new dedicated Strategic Policy Committee for economic development created in each local authority. Delivering Services Efficiently: The action plan aims to create a more transparent, accountable and efficient level of public service, while 16

also reducing costs. A new “National Oversight and Audit Commission” will be established to provide an external monitor of performance. This new structure aims to create a “stronger relationship between local government, local representatives and the communities they serve”, gaining the interest and support of the people. Local Government is the one area of the legislature in which all residents of Ireland, regardless of nationality, are enfranchised and entitled to vote. Unfortunately, this document makes no reference at all to immigrants and or the broad issue of integration despite other EU and national policy documents pointing to local government as the primary vehicle for integration. However, this overall policy should be read in conjunction with the Alignment Report from earlier in 2012.

Local Integration Strategies and ARDS Following the publication of Planning for Diversity (2005), local authorities across the nation were encouraged to develop their own local integration initiatives supported by the County/City Development Boards. In addition, many of the local authorities helped to establish either an immigrant forum or an interagency forum with immigrant participation as a means of promoting a participatory approach to integration. Table 2.2 below charts the most common type of integration-related initiatives across Ireland’s 34 Local Authority areas from 2005-2013 that benefited from the involvement of local government structures. This table does not capture the numerous social inclusion and integration initiatives that have been led by local immigrant groups, community groups, FRCs, partnership companies, etc across the country. Instead, it focuses on key integration initiatives that are commonplace across many areas and that are led by the Local Authority and/or City/County Development Board in each of 34 local government areas. Table 2.2 Overview of local government involvement in integration initiatives (2005 - 2013) Number of Local Authorities and/or CDBs engaged in this initiative (up to January Nature of integration initiative 2014) Supporting Integration/ ethnic minority forum on an on-going basis

20 out of 34

Accessed and dispersed OMI/OPMI funding for local integration projects

28 out of 34

Currently developing “Anti-Racism and Diversity Strategy (ARDS)” or “Integration Strategy”

4 out of 34 (2 again + 2 for the first time)

Already Developed and Implementing “Anti-Racism and Diversity Strategy (ARDS)” or “Integration Strategy”

25 out of 34 (3 of whom already developed two)

Formed multi-stakeholder committee to monitor implementation of ARDS/ Integration Strategy

15 out of 34

17

Central government funding specifically targeted at integration initiatives began to be dispersed by a new Office of the Minister for Integration (OMI) in 2008, with particular attention paid to local authority initiatives. Subsequently, 28 of the 34 Local Authorities received funding from this central government source and directed funding towards local integration projects and/or the development and support of long-term Anti-Racism and Diversity Strategies (ARDS) or, more recently, integration strategies. As indicated in the table above, not all of these linked such funding with complementary efforts to support local integration forums. A list of ARDS/ integration strategies developed to date can be found on www.integration.ie, the official government website of the Office for the Promotion of Migrant Integration (OPMI). In the 25 local authority areas where ARDS or integration strategies have been developed, these strategies seek to encourage wide-ranging civic, NGO, and voluntary participation in actions that celebrate diversity and see integration as a progressive development in Irish society. In addition, a further two new areas are due to develop their strategies during early 2014, thus increasing the number of areas with strategies to 27.

New National Integration Strategy (2014/ 2015) In March 2014, the then Minister for Justice and Equality, Alan Shatter TD, announced plans to review Ireland’s approach to integration. This process is currently being overseen by a cross-departmental group. The Group is preparing a Draft Integration Strategy taking into account the policies and actions already being implemented in addition to input gathered from consultations with key stakeholders. The Group put out a call for written submissions in April and by May 80 written submissions from different interested groups and organisations around the country had been returned. Between May and September 2014, the Cross-Department Working Group held a number of thematic meetings to review our approach to integration and also held consultation meetings with 33 of the 80 groups and individuals that made submissions. This level of response and engagement bodes well for a future National Integration Strategy, which the chair of the Group hopes to have finalised by March 2015.

18

Chapter 3 Statistical Profiles of Minority Communities

19

Summary of Profile Categories The purpose of this chapter is to expound the statistical profiles of members of minority communities in Ireland, and then in Co Louth. Statistical background on Ethnic minorities, Traveller Community and Protestant Community will be examined in the following areas:      

Ethnicity Nationality Birthplace Language variance Religious variance Age profile

However, it must be noted that there is limitation to providing specific statistical background on each of the minority community group represented in this research. For example, a separate profile for the protestant community10 only exist in the area of religious variance in the country. Nationally, Protestant community are not regarded as a minority community, and as such not separated from the majority community. In this chapter, ethnicity; nationality and birthplace will be used to assessing statistics in relation to ethnic minority population, and in many cases figures are not available across all three of these perspectives: 



Ethnicity: Ethnicity represents large cultural groups and is better at capturing data on an individual’s association with numerous groupings (e.g. Asian-Irish). Statistical data sources, such as the census, try to gather information in relation to ethnic groups but it only works with large categories and could contain figures that do not reflect the shifting nature of the world’s population. Nationality: Nationality is defined by citizenship. This provides a certain picture, but does not captures details relating to members of migrant communities who have recently become citizens here in Ireland, or their children, who may have been Irish citizens at birth for example. Birthplace: Birthplace has the advantage of not being subject to changes. However, some of those born outside of Ireland could be the children of Irish citizens living abroad who have recently returned. Furthermore, an increasing number of children are born in Ireland to parents who have roots in other countries and cultures and/or who may not have been born in Ireland.

Protestant Community and Church of Ireland are recognised as a minority group under Co Louth Peace Programme, and are also named as a Peace Target Group under the EU funded Peace Programmes in Northern Ireland and border regions in Ireland 10

20

Aavailable statistics on Ireland and County Louth will be examined in relation to four main areas for monitoring integration that have been agreed at EU level:    

Education Employment Social inclusion Active citizenship/ participation

Comparison of Profile on Members of minority communities at National Level and in Co Louth The main profile of members of minority communities existing nationally is compared to that of Co Louth, using the available data and statistics from the census 2011.



Ethnicity

According to Census 2011, the population of ethnic minorities11 in Ireland was 13.5%, which is higher compared to the 10.5% of ethnic minorities in Co Louth. A small population of 663 Irish Travellers reside in Co Louth, which is 0.6% of the total population in Louth. A similar 0.6% of Travellers was recorded as the national population figure in 2011. Table 3.1: Stated Ethnicity of People Present in Ireland and Co Louth (Census 2011)

Ethnicity

Ireland

Co Louth

3,821,995

104,674

Irish Traveller

29,495

663

Any other White background

412,975

8,612

People of African background

58,697

3,230

Other people of Black background

6,381

160

People of Chinese background

17,832

571

Other People of Asian background

66,858

1,321

Other People including mixed background

40,724

1,047

Not stated

70,324

1,807

4,525,281

122,085

White Irish

Total population

In the Census report, statistics on ethnic minorities does not include the Irish Travellers. In Ireland, Irish Travellers are yet to be recognised as an ethnic community 11

21



Nationality

In 2011, 12.2% of the population residing in Ireland who stated their nationality, are non-Irish nationals. In contrast, 10.4% of people in Co Louth, are non-Irish nationals. The percentage of non-Irish nationals in Louth increased between 2006 and 2011 by 2.3%. This equals an increase in the number of non-Irish nationals residing in County Louth from 9035 to 12,708 between 2006 and 2011, indicating an actual increase of 3,673 people. The figure stated below for All Irish nationality includes naturalised Irish persons.

Table 3.2: Breakdown of Nationalities in Ireland and Co Louth (Census 2011)

Ireland



Co Louth

Nationality

2006

2011

2006

2011

All Irish

3,706,683

3,927,143

100,511

108,104

Non Irish National

419,733

544,357

9,035

12,708

EU States excl. Ireland

275,775

386,764

5,200

8,365

Rest of Europe

24,425

16,307

544

450

Africa

35,326

41,642

1,746

1,927

Asia

46,952

65,579

910

1,461

America12

12,475

24,884

205

313

Other nationalities

22,422

8,341

394

180

Multi-nationality

2,358

840

36

12

No nationality

1,318

1,487

26

40

Not stated

44,279

52,294

1,087

1,233

TOTAL POPULATION

4,172,013

4,525,281

110,659

122,085

Birthplace

Within Co Louth, 18.5% of the population was born outside Ireland, which represents 22,549 people who stated their place of birth. This percentage is higher than the national population of people born outside Ireland, which is 16.9%. In 2011, Co Louth experienced an increase in the number of people born outside Ireland with the arrival of 5,365 new foreign born persons. The percentage of residents in Co Louth born in Northern Ireland is 30.7%, which is higher than the nationwide share of 7.5%. Ethnic Minorities from United Kingdom are the largest group of people born outside Ireland, followed by Polish people group.

In Census 2006, the score recorded for America indicated people from USA, while the data for other countries in America was added to other nationalities. Differently, in Census 2011, data recorded for America included other countries in America. 12

22

Table 3.3: Top Ten Places of Birth outside Ireland, in Louth and Ireland (2011) County Louth

Ireland

Top foreign countries of birth

Persons

Share within foreign born population

Top foreign countries of birth

Persons

Share within foreign born population

Northern Ireland England and Wales Poland

6914

30.7%

212,286

27.3%

3733

16.6%

England and Wales Poland

115,193

14.8%

1733

7.7%

58,470

7.5%

Lithuania

1626

7.2%

Northern Ireland Lithuania

34,847

4.5%

Nigeria

1475

6.5%

United States

27,726

3.6%

Latvia

1046

4.6%

Latvia

19,989

2.6%

United States

491

2.2%

Nigeria

19,789

2.5%

China

459

2.0%

Romania

17,995

2.3%

Scotland

365

1.6%

Scotland

17,871

2.3%

India

345

1.5%

India

17,856

2.3%

All foreign born - 22,549



All foreign born - 542,022

English Language Variance

Among the total population residing in Co Louth, 10.5% speak a language other than English and Irish at home. This percentage represents 12, 826 people that speak foreign languages at home. Of this share, 2,412 people (18.8%) reported that they did not speak English well or did not speak English at all. In Co Louth, the proportion of people that stated ‘did not speak English well’ or ‘did not speak English at all’, indicates the number of people that may have English language difficulties , which is slightly higher than the nationwide figure at 17.4%. In both Ireland and Co Louth, Polish language is the most common foreign language spoken at home by foreign language speakers. 

Religious Variance

It was reported in Census 2011 that 106,845 people stated their religion as Roman Catholic in Co Louth, while over 3 million of people nationwide identified their religion as Roman Catholic. Nationally 134,365 people reported religion to be Church of Ireland and Protestant, which is higher than 2,179 people that stated religion as Church of Ireland and Protestant in Co. Louth. Out of 1,984 people nationwide who declared to be Jewish in 2011, 19 people were recorded to reside in Co Louth. There are other existing religion in Co Louth, such as Methodist, Presbyterian, Pentecostal, Evangelical, Islam etc. 23

National Profile of Minority Community Population Scope of Ethnic Variance in Ireland 13.5% of Ireland’s population, i.e. 603,467 people, identify with an ethnic minority community of migrant background 0.6% of the population in Ireland are Irish Travellers, i.e. 29,495 people, but the Census does not seem to capture the full population 12.2% of Ireland’s residents are non-Irish 16.9% of those now living in Ireland are foreign-born, but some of these identify with the majority Irish ethnicity

According to Census 2011, 603,467 people living in Ireland stated their ethnicity as other than “Majority White Irish”. The largest ethnic group in Ireland (apart from majority Irish) are ethnic minorities with White migrant background (9.4%), followed by those with Asian background (1.9%). Ethnic minorities with Africa background account for 1.3% of the population, while the share of other ethnic minority groups of migrant background in Ireland was 0.9%. As noted in figure 3.1 below, the population of ethnic minorities with migrant background has grown significantly to 13.5% from 10.5% in Census 2006. The population born outside Ireland is the largest sub-category as it includes those whose nationality is other than Irish, those who got Irish citizenship through birth to Irish parents or the citizenship process, and those who identify with the ethnic majority Irish culture and/or are Irish citizens but who happened to have been born abroad. This figure has also grown since 2006, as has the figure for non-Irish residents, but all at slightly different rates, thus reflecting the complexity of assessing changes in diversity.

Figure 3.1: Comparisons of national census results for 2006 and 2011

24

Irish Travellers make up 0.6% (29,495) of the total population. According to the Census 2011, 10% of the Irish Traveller population reported their place of birth to be outside Ireland (Northern Ireland, Great Britain and other countries). In contrast there are an estimated 40,129 members of the Traveller Community in Ireland according to the “All Ireland Traveller Health Study (AITHS) 2011�, which suggests that the Census is underestimating the Traveller population, indicating that not everyone states their ethnicity on the census form.

Nationality Variance among Residents of Ireland UK citizens and Polish remain the top two foreign nationalities Not all Irish Travellers are Irish Nationals According to Census 2011, there are 199 nationalities now represented among those who live in Ireland. Table 3.4 below outlines the populations of the top ten nationalities. The population of three of these countries (Poland, Romania and India) almost doubled between 2006 and 2011. Some increase in population is noticed across all the top ten countries represented, except USA, China and France, which recorded a decrease.

Table 3.4: Ten top nationalities of ethnic minorities with migrant background in Ireland Population Population Country of Nationality Country of Nationality (2006) (2011) United Kingdom

112,548

Poland

122,585

Poland

63,276

United Kingdom

112,259

Lithuania

24,628

Lithuania

36,683

Nigeria

16,300

Latvia

20,593

Latvia

13,319

Nigeria

17,642

USA

12,475

Romania

17,304

China

11,161

India

16,986

Germany

10,289

Philippines

12,791

Philippines

9,548

Germany

11,305

France

9,046

USA

11,015

Interestingly, in 2011, one third of non-Irish nationals are couples with children (33.9%), a figure which is only slightly lower than among Irish nationals (35.1%). This difference is now a lot less significant than in previous census figures, suggesting a longterm settlement pattern and a trend of settling and raising families in Ireland.

25

Table 3.5: Nationalities of Irish Travellers and Birthplace from Census 2011 Country of Nationality

Population (2011)

Ireland United Kingdom Other nationalities Not stated (including no nationality) Total

28,401 308 7 779 29,495

Place of Birth

Population (2011)

Ireland

26,660

Great Britain

2,487

Northern Ireland Other countries (excl. Ireland and UK) Total

337 11 29,495

Census 2011 indicated that the vast majority of Irish Travellers are Irish nationals. However a small proportion of Irish Travellers identified as nationals from other countries, as shown in Table 2.2 below. It can be estimated from Table 3.5 above that a minimum of 1,741 Irish Travellers with Irish nationality were born outside Ireland.

Birthplaces Outside Ireland 38% born in UK; 35% in other EU countries; and 27% outside the EU 10% of the recorded Irish Traveller population are born outside Ireland According to Census 2011, a comparison of the figures for nationality and place of birth shows that there were 25,198 non-Irish nationals who were born in Ireland. That is just 4.6% of the non-Irish population across the country. However, it becomes significant in relation to long-term integration where mixed identities and a sense of not being fully recognised by the society in which one was born and grew up. Reasons for this vary from parental choice to register their child as a citizen of their own country of birth, to restrictions in citizenship laws as they pertain to parents who are legally resident for less than three of the four years prior to the child’s birth. When birthplace on its own is examined, the top countries of origin were England & Wales, Poland, Northern Ireland, Lithuania, Nigeria, Romania, Scotland and India. People born in the UK was by far the largest group and some are Irish citizens. Based on birthplace, there is a relatively even distribution among those born in the UK and EU countries. Looking at the figures for those born outside EU, most people arrived from Asia, followed by Africa, the Americas and Europe (outside the EU). The Census documented the national population of Irish travellers as 29,495. A large proportion of the recorded population for Travellers were born in Ireland (26,660). A share of 2,487 people were born in Great Britain, and 337 of Travellers were born in Northern Ireland. 26

Figure 3.2: Population born outside Ireland by place of birth (Census 2011)

Linguistic Variance in Ireland 11% of the population in Ireland speak foreign languages at home 18% of foreign language speakers have difficulty with English According to Census 2011, 11% of the population in Ireland speak foreign languages at home (i.e. other than English and Irish). Almost one-third of this population are Irishborn and are therefore likely to be at least bilingual, which is an asset for the country. The most widely spoken foreign language at home (other than English and Irish) is Polish; where 10,573 Polish speakers are Irish-born and 108,953 were born outside Ireland. Interestingly, Figure 2.3 below indicates that French is the mostly widely spoken language among the Irish-born population who speak a foreign language at home, i.e. 37,800 Irish-born people speak French at home.

27

Figure 3.3: Foreign languages spoken at home in Ireland (Census 2011)

According to Census 2011, 17.4% of the foreign language speaking population (who speak a language other than English or Irish at home) reported difficulty with English. More precisely, 15,114 people did not speak English at all, while 74,447 stated that they did not speak English well. Language problems primarily affect people from the EU10 Accession States (Lithuanian, Polish, Latvian, and Hungarian) as well as students who are here to study English (Chinese, Brazilian) and some African groups (Somali): between 23 and 30% of people within those groups did not speak English well or at all. Figure 3.4: English skills among foreign language speakers 2.9% 3.4% 14.5%

47.7%

Very well Well Not well

31.4%

Not at all Not stated

The majority of Nigerians and Indians reported speaking English well. Date of arrival also has an influence over the ability of speaking English, with those who had been here for a considerable length of time tending to speak better English.

28

Religious Variance in Ireland Increase of membership in Church of Ireland and Protestant religion Non-Irish nationals account for main increases in membership of religions 94% of Irish Travellers who stated their religion are Roman Catholic members Nationwide, Church of Ireland, England, Anglican, and Episcopalian had a membership growth of 6.4% (7,810 people) between 2006 and 2011 Census. Protestant membership also increased in 2011 by 22.3%, which represents 970 people. Ireland’s religious landscape has changed through the increasing number of non-Catholic groups. The Orthodox, Muslim, and Pentecostal populations, as well as those with no religion, have shown the largest increase. Non-Irish nationals account for the majority of membership increases among all religious groups, including Catholic. However, the Catholic religion has remained predominant. Those who reported membership in non-Catholic religions account for 8.3% of total population that stated their religion; while those with no religion make up 5.8%. Among the Irish Traveller population, 94% of those that stated their religion reported membership in Catholic religion.

Figure 3.5: Changes in membership of minority religions in Ireland (Census 2006 and 2011)

Gender and Age Profiles in Ireland According to Census 2011, within the Traveller Community 14,582 were male and 14,913 were female. Males and females were also evenly represented in the non-Irish population in 2011 (271,864 and 272,493 respectively). In 2002 and 2006 the number of males exceeded the number of females among non-Irish nationals. A higher proportion of non-Irish nationals living in Ireland are 19-44 years of age, making up 57% of that population (as opposed to 35% in the Irish population). Older 29

people (44 and above) make up a larger share of the UK population than among other non-Irish nationals. On other hand, 52% of the Traveller Community are 19 or under.

Table 3.6: Age Profile by Different Ethnic Groups in Ireland (Census 2011)

Age

White Irish

0 - 19 years

1,056,478

28%

White Irish Traveller 15,414 52%

Other Ethnic Minority 159,424 26%

20 - 44 years

1,335,669

35%

10,315

35%

342,522

57%

44 years + over

1,429,848

37%

3,766

13%

101,521

17%

Totals

3,821,995

100%

29,495

100%

603,467

100%

National Statistics on Main Areas of Integration Education 11.7% of primary and 11% of secondary school pupils are non-Irish 45% of non-Irish nationals have third level qualifications compared with 32% of Irish nationals On average 11.7% of primary and 11.0% of secondary school pupils are recorded as non-Irish. However there are differences between schools. According to Department of Education and Skills figures for 2011, in a third of secondary schools there are only a few non-Irish students (1 in 20, or less) while in 12% of the schools in Ireland, they represent 1 in 5, or more, of the students. Similar patterns are repeated at primary level.

Figure 3.6: Share of non-Irish students in secondary schools, 2011

12% 27%

Schools with 1 in 5 (i.e. 20%), or more, non-Irish students Schools with 6-19% of their students who are non-Irish

61%

Schools with just 1 in 20 (i.e. 5%), or less, non-Irish students

30

The Annual Integration Monitor 2011 showed that 45% of ethnic minorities with migrant background have third level qualifications compared with 32% of Majority Irish. Examining only those who completed their education, based on Census 2011 data, 30.7% of non-Irish nationals have third level degrees compared with 23.8% of Irish nationals. Among these, Indian nationals had the highest percentage of persons with a third level degree or higher (77.3%), followed by Filipinos (64.5%) and USA nationals (55.9%).

It was also found that many EU Accession State Nationals have technical/vocational qualifications. Latvians (30.2%) and Poles (28.8%) had the highest proportions of persons with a technical or vocational qualification. Table 3.7: Percentage Share of Education Levels in Ireland (Census 2011) NonOut of Old New Irish UK Irish which... EU15 EU10 Not stated

NonEU

3.6%

6.5%

5.2%

5.2%

6.3%

8.7%

Those without second level exam Upper secondary (Leaving Cert. Equiv.) Post-second level certificate (e.g. trades)

34.7%

13.5%

24.2%

6.7%

9.5%

11.4%

20.3%

19.7%

20.8%

13.0%

22.7%

15.9%

17.6%

29.7%

22.6%

23.0%

41.2%

20.0%

Third level degrees & above

23.8%

30.7%

27.3%

52.1%

20.3%

44.0%

Total of those whose full-time education has ceased

100.0%

100.0%

100.0%

100.0%

100.0%

100.0%

Employment The full qualifications of many non-Irish nationals in employment are not being utilised Unemployment rate is higher among non-Irish nationals and Travellers Non-Irish workers represented 13% of the total working age population in 2011. They have filled labour and skill shortages in numerous areas as nurses, doctors, accountants, IT specialists and care workers, deli assistants, kitchen porters, cleaners and security personnel. Yet there is a considerable group whose full qualifications are not utilised. According to Census 2011, the unemployment rate was 22.5% among non-Irish, compared with 18.5% among Irish nationals. This gap exists among highly skilled groups also, as non-Irish third level degree holders are more likely to be unemployed than their Irish counterparts. Many from non-EU backgrounds who are not at work in Ireland are participating in some form of education: this is especially the case for people from Africa, Asia and the Americas. A significant proportion of those from the UK and 31

not in work are either retired or are unable to work due to sickness or disability. Nationals of the American continents and EU citizens also have a marked share of retirees, albeit much lower than that of UK nationals. In contrast, other nationality groups, in particular non-EU groups have very few retired people. Figures from Census 2011 indicate that unemployment among Irish Travellers is very high and shows an increasing trend. Unemployment within the Traveller Community was 84.3% in 2011, an increase from 74.9% five years earlier.

Table3.8: Unemployment Rate among Irish Travellers aged 15 years and over in 2011

Irish Traveller Status Aged 15 years and over - In labour force - Not in labour force Unemployed

Number 17,409 9,973 7,436 8,411

% of unemployed in total number aged15 years and over % of unemployed in labour force

48% 84.3%

Social Inclusion 

Poverty and Housing 16.4% of non-Irish nationals are considered to be at risk of poverty 28% of non-Irish own houses compared to 78% of Irish nationals

According to the 2012 Quarterly Household National Survey (Quarter 1), 16.4% of nonIrish nationals are considered to be at risk of poverty: having low income and lacking basic items such as heating, shoes and meat. This is higher than among Irish nationals, of whom 14.5% are at risk of poverty. In general ethnic minorities with migrant background cannot access social welfare payments unless they show a connection to Ireland – e.g. record of employment (except refugees). The share of non-Irish among jobseeker payment recipients (Live Register) was 18.5% in 2012, as opposed to 14.7% among Irish nationals.

32

In terms of housing, 78% of Irish nationals own their houses, compared with just 28% of non-Irish. Cultural factors in relation to house ownership among Irish may go some way towards explaining this, but there are other factors. Nevertheless the number non-Irish who own houses increased between 2006 and 2011.

37.7% of residents are children in Direct Provision accommodation for those seeking asylum/ protection As of December 2013, there were 4,434 persons accommodated across 16 counties within the Direct Provision system for people seeking asylum/ protection; this included 1,673 children. Residents are not allowed to work or enter third level education, and receive ₏19.10 (or ₏9.60 per child) plus full board. Children can attend primary and secondary school, but challenges engaging school-mates on play-dates for example has been highlighted in centres across the country. More serious impacts on poverty levels, family life and mental health have also been highlighted by many NGOs.13 The length of stay depends upon the processing of individual cases, but as of December 2013 five or more years had passed since initial asylum applications were made by 1,915 residents of the system (i.e. 43.2%); a further 31.0% have been waiting between 2 – 5 years.

Figure 3.7: Breakdown by family status of residents within direct provision (RIA December 2013) 32 Children 1,673

1,585

Lone parents Married persons Single persons

584

Status not yet recorded 560

56.3% of Traveller families are housed with the assistance of Local Authorities According to the Annual Count of Traveller Families (2013) 40.0% of Traveller families in Ireland are housed from their own resources, are renting from the private sector or are sharing housing. A small proportion of families live on unauthorised sites, while 56.3% are housed with the assistance of a Local Authority.

13

For example see, http://www.flac.ie/download/pdf/one_size_doesnt_fit_all_exec_summary_final.pdf

33

Figure 3.8: Housing arrangements of Traveller Community across Ireland (Source: ACTF 2013)

663

Accommodated by or with the assistance of the Local Authority On unauthorised sites

2,717

Own resources (estimate) 5,574

Private rented accommodation (estimate) Sharing housing

584 361



Health

Non-Irish nationals, on average, tend to report somewhat better health than Irish nationals; and they are less likely to have health consultations or being admitted to health services. For instance, 60% of non-Irish nationals attended GPs between autumn 2009 and 2010 compared with 76% of Irish nationals, while 11% were admitted to outpatient services relative to 21% of Irish nationals. Health difficulties among the Traveller Community continue to be significantly higher than in the rest of the population nationally. Overall, Traveller life expectancy remains at rates last experienced by the general population in 1941 (AITHS 2011). Male Travellers’ life expectancy now stands at 62 years (compared with 77 years) and females at 70 years (compared with 82 years).



Social networks In one 2008 study14, more Chinese and Nigerian respondents reported socialising with Irish people than with their own family members

A large study of four ethnic groups in 2008 highlighted that, notwithstanding negative experiences, many ethnic minorities with migrant background build strong social networks in Ireland. The study, ‘Getting on: From Migration to Integration’, concentrated on four main ethnic minority groups and examined the experience of 400 individuals, half of whom were living in Dublin. The research found that approximately half of those examined spent time with Irish people. A small difference was noted The Migration and Citizenship Research Initiative, UCD (2008) Getting on: From Migration to Integration – Chinese, Indian, Lithuanian and Nigerian Migrants’ Experiences in Ireland. Dublin: ICI 14

34

among the four ethnic groups: Lithuanians were the least likely and Nigerians were the most likely to have regular contact with Irish people, while Chinese and Indians fell in the middle. Interestingly, more Chinese and Nigerian respondents reported socialising with Irish people than with their own family members. Nigerians were far more likely than other ethnic minority groups (with migrant background) to spend time with other ethnic minorities.



Racism and Discrimination

Reporting of racist incidents to An Garda Siochána has decreased since 2007 Gardaí record about 100-200 racist incidents per year, but as can be seen in Table 2.5 below figures have been dropping since 2007. The reporting of racism in Ireland is officially done via An Garda Síochána, through the use of their Pulse System. Gardaí record any incidents as racist if perceived such by the victims. However, there are number of additional pieces of evidence which suggest that those figures recorded do not capture the full extent of racism in Ireland.

Table 3.8: Reporting of racist incidents to Gardaí, 2004-2013 (Source: OPMI, 2013)* Year reported No. of racist incidents reported nationally

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

70

104

176

217

175

128

127

142

100

92

* Note: Incidents recorded as racist on the Garda Pulse System may be subject to later revision.

Racist incidents recorded by NGOs in Ireland suggest a much higher rate of incidents than those that are being report to An Garda Siochána Non-profit organisations which are members of the Irish Network Against Racism such as the ICI, SARI, Doras Luimni, Show Racism the Red Card, Nasc, and ENAR Ireland all record incidents. ENAR Ireland collated 149 incidents in 2011 which is more than NCCRI recorded in any year during its operation between 2005 and 2008. 75% of the racist incidents reported to ENAR Ireland in 2011 involved violence or crime; that is 113 incidents of the 149 reported (ENAR Ireland, Press release, 2012).

According to an EU Study on Discrimination in Ireland, 35% of respondents highlighted discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, i.e. racism As part of a wider EU study on discrimination across all Member States, 997 people in Ireland were asked their opinions on discrimination. 35% of the respondents said that there is widespread discrimination based on ethnic origin and 13% stated that there is widespread discrimination based on religion. This is lower than what was found at EU 35

level where 56% said there was widespread discrimination based on ethnic background and 39% stated that there was widespread discrimination based on religion. Nevertheless, 35% is still a significant proportion of the population who believe that there is discrimination based on ethnic origin. Furthermore, this study reflects the opinion of the general population in contrast with the EU MIDI survey. This suggests that ethnic minorities perceive the situation to be worse. A somewhat higher percentage of people in Ireland know about their rights regarding discrimination and harassment than across the EU, according to the same study. But the fact that 35% of the population still seems unaware of their rights is a point of concern, even if it is lower than the EU average of 48%. Furthermore, 17% of the respondents in Ireland did not know to whom cases of discrimination and harassment should be reported. This is a high proportion of the population; 8% higher than the European average (Eurobarometer, 2012).

Active Citizenship/ Participation 28% of registered volunteers are ethnic minorities with migrant background Ethnic minorities with migrant background have re-vitalised churches and volunteer centres: in 2010 they accounted for 28% of registered volunteers with Volunteer Centres across the country. They are not so active in sporting and resident associations; nearly half of Irish/UK nationals are members of sporting organisations, as opposed to 21% of EU nationals and 15% of non-EU nationals. Figure 3.9: Rates of Sports Club Membership in Ireland (Irish Sports Monitor 2007, 2008, 2009)15

15

See pp.37-40 in Annual Monitoring Report on Integration 2011.

36

Ethnic minorities are under-represented on the electoral register Nationally, about 4.7% of registered voters are non-Irish; this represents 154,008 people, but the accurate figure for non-Irish voters is difficult to calculate. Previous voter drives led to an increase but many ethnic minorities with migrant background are still not registered to vote, and at 4.7% it is significantly less than their share in the voting age population. Four, from among 37 ethnic minority candidates of migrant background were elected in the last Local Election in 2009 (0.2% of all local council members); 31 such candidates stood in the 2014 Local Elections. While political parties made some effort in recruiting migrants their efforts peaked in 2009 and mainly targeted the Polish community (Fanning et al, 2009). In addition, many political parties and candidates do not seem to realise that around 25,000 ethnic minorities with migrant background received Irish citizenship between 2005 and 2011, which grants them the right to vote in all elections (Immigrant Council of Ireland, 2011a)

Profile of Minority Community Population in Co Louth Scope of Ethnic Variance in Co Louth 10.5% of the population residing in Co Louth are ethnic minorities with ethnic background in another country outside Ireland The percentage of minority population with Black or Black-Irish background is higher than nationwide share According to Census 2011, 10.5% of the population in Louth, have ethnic or cultural backgrounds with roots in other countries. There were 9,686 non-Irish ethnic minorities in County Louth in 2006 which increased to 14,941 in 2011, indicating an actual change of 5,255 more people in 2011. As pointed out at the beginning of this chapter, some of these ethnic minorities have also become Irish citizens through naturalisation or by being born in Ireland. In Louth, the largest minority ethnic grouping was White non-Irish (55.2% of all nonIrish ethnic minorities) followed by Black or Black Irish (21.7%). Asian/Asian Irish and Others (including mixed) accounted for a similar share of the minority ethnic population. Nationwide the share of White non-Irish was 10% higher than the figure for Louth (65.5% vs. 55.2%), while the share of Black or Black Irish in Co Louth is significantly higher than the national figure, (21.7% vs.10.8%) suggesting that the latter group has stronger presence in County Louth than nationwide. 37

Figure 3.10: Share of Ethnic Minorities in Co Louth (Census 2011)

Ethnic minorities in County Louth and Ireland, 2011 100% 90%

4.2% 6.7% 12.1%

80% 70%

21.7%

4.7% 6.4% 13.2% 10.1%

Other

60%

Asian/Asian Irish

50% 40% 30%

Irish Traveller

55.2%

65.6%

Black/Black Irish White non-Irish

20% 10% 0% County Louth

Ireland

In the Irish Traveller Community, there are more 245 persons residing in Louth 0.6% of the total population in Co Louth are Irish Travellers A further 0.6% of Co Louth population are from Irish Traveller community. There were 245 more Travellers living in County Louth in 2011 than in 2006; a significant increase. The current Census 2011 reports the population of Irish Travellers in Co Louth as 663 people, although the census may not capture all the travellers. More recently, the annual count of Traveller families in all categories of accommodation in 2013, indicates a total count of 417 Travellers in Co Louth.

Nationality Variance among Residents in Co Louth 10.4% of the population in Co Louth are non-Irish nationals 49.9% of non-Irish nationals in Louth are citizens of EU countries There is overall increase in the number of non-Irish nationals residing in Louth between 2006 and 2011 38

As of Census 2011, the population in Co Louth that accounted for the number of nonIrish nationals was 12,708. This number of people make up 10.4% of the population in Louth, which is somewhat lower than the national figure at 12.0%. Between 2006 and 2011, Co Louth experienced 2.3 percentage point increase in the number of people reported as non-Irish nationals. Polish nationals are the largest group. At 49.9%, it is estimated that almost every second non-Irish national in Louth, is a citizen of EU country (excluding UK), which is similar to the nationwide figure of 50.3%. According to the census, there are 8,365 EU citizen, who are non-Irish nationals. An increase in the number of non-Irish nationals was recorded in Co Louth between 2006 (9,035 people) and 2011 (12,708), showing 3,673 more of non-Irish nationals.

Figure 3.11: Share of Nationalities in Co Louth (2011)

SUMMARY OF NATIONALITIES IN CO LOUTH(CENSUS 2011) 0% 2%

1%

6% 10%

All Irish Non Irish National EU States excl. Irish Rest of Europe Africa

81%

Asia

1.1% of Irish Travellers in Louth are reported as non-Irish nationals The number of Irish Travellers in Co Louth that is identified as non-Irish nationals in Census 2011, is 315 people, representing 1.1% of documented population of Irish Travellers who stated their nationality. These share of Irish Travellers are nationals of United Kingdom and other countries.

39

Birthplace Outside Ireland Residing in Co Louth 18.5% of the population in Co Louth were born outside Ireland Louth is the ninth County in Ireland with highest population of foreign born 30.7% of the population in Louth stated Northern Ireland as their place of birth, making Louth the third County with highest share of people born in Northern Ireland

Figure 3.12: Share of Population Born Outside Ireland Resident in Louth 2011

Population Born Outside Ireland in County Louth and Ireland, 2011 48.6% 50.0%

40.0%

26.8%

30.0% 20.0%

10.5% 2.7%

10.0%

7.5%

3.2%

0.7%

0.0% UK

EU27

Non-EU Europe

Africa

County Louth

Asia

America Ocenia

Ireland

The percentage of people born outside Ireland residing in Co Louth is higher than the nationwide figure for Ireland. 22,549 people, which represent 18.5% of the population in Louth, stated in the Census 2011 that they were born overseas. Northern Ireland top the list of foreign birthplaces with 6,914 people. This significant high number makes Co Louth, the third County of residence for people born in Northern Ireland, which includes individuals of Protestant faith and people from the Traveller community born in Northern Ireland. As indicated in the figure above, people with birthplaces in the UK (England & Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland) made up 48.6% of those born abroad. This is considerably higher than nationwide (37.6%).

Furthermore, the share of those born in Africa is 10.5%. African born population is the biggest group among those born outside the EU and their share among foreign born is higher than nationwide (7.1%).

40

The share of those born in the EU is lower than nationwide; they accounted for 26.8% of the foreign born population in County Louth compared with 34.8% across Ireland. The majority of EU born population is from Poland, Lithuania and Latvia. Interestingly, Polish-born and the Lithuanian born population was almost the same proportion. Birthplaces outside EU made up 24.6% of total population born overseas. Table3.9: Breakdown of EU Born Groups in Local Areas (2011)

Local Areas

Polish born

Ardee Drogheda East Drogheda West Dundalk Carlingford Dundalk South Total

12% 35% 19% 16% 18% 1,736

Lithuanian born 7% 29% 23% 16% 26% 1,628

Other EU born 9% 26% 19% 21% 25% 2,689

Further examination of data reveals small differences within the EU-born groups; namely Polish, Lithuanian and other EU born. As shown in Table above, more than a third of Polish born persons were concentrated in Drogheda East while the other groups had somewhat lower presence in this area. On the other hand, in Dundalk South, Lithuanian and other EU born groups had a higher concentration than those born in Poland. The figure 3.13 below, shows the birthplaces of residents in Louth, classified by local electoral areas in 2011.

Figure 3.13: Distribution of major birthplaces in the local electoral areas of Co Louth (Census 2011)

Distribution of large birthplace groupings in the Local Electoral Areas of County Louth 40.0% 30.0% 20.0%

10.0% 0.0%

Ardee

Drogheda East

Irish born

Drogheda West

UK born

EU born

Dundalk Carlingford

Dundalk South

Non-EU born

41

10% of the Irish Traveller Community in Louth were born outside Ireland

Among the Irish Travellers, as indicated in the table 3.10 below, Travellers in Louth are predominantly Irish. Only 10% noted their birthplace as outside Ireland, which corresponds to 2,835 Irish Travellers.

Table 3.10: Birthplaces of Irish Travellers Residing in Co Louth (census 2011)

Country Ireland Great Britain Northern Ireland Other Countries excluding Ireland & UK TOTAL

Share of Birthplaces 26,660 2,487 337 11

Percentage of Birthplaces 90.4% 8.43% 1.14% 0.03%

29,495

100%

Linguistic Variance in Co Louth 10.5% of the people residing in Louth speak a foreign language at home 18.8% of the foreign language speakers reported difficulty with English

Table 3.11: Population of Foreign Language Speakers in Louth and Language Spoken

Speakers of Foreign Language by Language Spoken in Co Louth Language Persons Polish

1,862

Lithuanian

1,532

French

1,239

Other

8,193

TOTAL

12,826

42

English language is not spoken at home by everyone living in Ireland. According to the Census 2011, 10.5% of the population in Louth speak a language other than English and Irish at home, which is 12,826 people. 18.8% (2,412 people) of these foreign language speakers reported difficulty with English language (they did not speak English well or speak at all). Of all foreign languages spoken in Louth, Polish language is the most common foreign language spoken at home, followed by Lithuanian. About 1,862 people speak Polish at home in Louth. In Dundalk and its environs, about 4,871 persons spoke a language other than English and Irish at home and of these people, 926 could not speak English well or could not speak at all. Lithuanian language is the most common foreign language spoken at home in Dundalk, with 595 speakers. In Ardee, 505 persons spoke a language other than Irish or English at home and of these foreign language speakers, 113 could not speak English well or couldn’t speak English at all. Polish was the most common foreign language spoken at home with 128 speakers. In Drogheda, 6,337 persons spoke a language other than Irish or English at home and of these 1,210 persons reported not to speak English well or couldn’t speak at all. Polish was the most common foreign language spoken at home with 1,114 speakers. In Carlingford, 117 persons spoke a language other than Irish or English at home and of these 20 people could not speak English well or could not speak at all. Lithuanian was the most common foreign language spoken at home with 20 speakers. Figure 3.14: Population of foreign language speakers in Louth classified by how well they speak English Language (Census 2011)

Speakers of Foreign Language in Co Louth Classified by their Level of Speaking English Not stated

419

Not at all

384

Not well

2,028

Well

3,782

Very well

6,213 0

1,000

2,000

3,000

4,000

5,000

6,000

7,000

43

Religious Variance in Co Louth 86.9% of the population in Co. Louth reported religious membership with Roman Catholic 1.6% of the population in Louth are members of Church of Ireland, England, Anglican and Episcopalian 10.5% increase in religious membership between Census 2006 and 2011 Majority of the population that stated their religious status in Census 2011 are members of Roman Catholic faith, which are 106,845 persons. There were still 8,882 persons who declared religion other than Catholic and a further 5,414 persons stated that they did not belong to any religion. Overall, Co Louth experienced 10.5% increase in the number of people that identified with a religion when compared to 2006. The population that reported membership with Church of Ireland, England, Anglican and Episcopalian is 1.6% (2,050 persons) of the total population. A smaller 1% of people are members of Islamic religion, which indicates 1,169 persons in Co Louth. Drogheda and Dundalk have the largest concentration of people who declared religious activity. As shown in the table 3.12below, of these two towns with the largest population in Louth, Drogheda has more people who practice religion.

Table3.12: Population in Louth Classified by Religious Status (Census 2011)

Religion Roman Catholic

Co Louth

Drogheda Dundalk Ardee

Duleek

106,845

31,965

31,790

4,407

3,520

Church of Ireland, England, Anglican and Episcopalian Muslim

2,050

690

590

94

95

1,169

598

569

17

41

Other Christian Religion

4,013

1,815

1,650

124

87

Other Stated Religion

1,650

779

541

49

30

No Religion

5,414

2,064

1,971

142

146

Not Stated

1,756

667

705

102

59

122,897

38,578

37,816

3,988

1,786

TOTAL

44

Age Profile The population of young people with immigrant background is more than the share of young Irish It is useful to look at the age composition of large ethnic groups. One main advantage of using ethnicity here is to include children born in Ireland to migrant parents. One clear difference is that older age groups are more significant within the White Irish population, especially those older than 65; but even the older working age group, 45-64, accounts for a larger group among White Irish than among other ethnic groups. It is particularly Asian/Asian Irish and Black/Black Irish group where older age groups are small, especially those aged over 65 which are negligible. Subsequently, among non-Irish ethnic groups, the younger working age cohort aged 20-44 tends to be larger than among White Irish. To be more precise the 20-44 age group is very significant within the White non-Irish and Asian group but less so among the Black/Black Irish group and those with mixed ethnicity. Children and teenagers make up a marked proportion of the Black/Black Irish; larger than within any other ethnic groups. The share of infants within ethnic groups is quite similar although Black/Black Irish, Asian/Asian Irish and mixed groups as well as Travellers have somewhat bigger share of infants than the two “White� groups.

Figure 3.15: Percentage of Ethnic Groups, classified by Age in Co Louth (2011)

Large ethnic groups classified by age, County Louth 100% 90% 80% 70% 60%

50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

White Irish (104,674)

Traveller (603)

Black or Black Irish (3,390) 0.1%

Asian or Asian Irish (1,892) 0.6%

Mixed (1,047)

4.2%

Non-Irish White (8,612) 3.1%

65< yrs.

12.3%

45-64 yrs.

23.6%

14.0%

15.0%

7.8%

9.0%

10.8%

20-44 yrs.

35.4%

37.4%

57.8%

36.6%

57.7%

39.7%

5-19 yrs.

20.6%

32.1%

15.4%

43.7%

20.7%

30.4%

0-4 yrs.

8.1%

12.2%

8.7%

11.8%

11.9%

16.9%

2.2%

45

County Louth Statistics on Main Areas of Integration

Education 10% of the students in secondary and further education schools are nonIrish nationals In secondary and further education schools non-Irish nationals made up 10% of the student population in 2011. This is only 1% lower than nationwide share. There were differences between schools:

St. Oliver Community Schools had the largest number with 279 non-Irish students representing 24% of the student population. Our Ladyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College had 110 non-Irish students accounting for 12% of the student population. Both of these colleges are in Drogheda. Also, Drogheda Grammar School had 39 foreign students, which made up 16% of the school. In Dundalk the De La Salle College had 84 non-Irish students, representing 13% of the student population. In contrast, Scoil Ui Mhuiri (a Gaeltacht School in Dunleer) had 19 foreign students, which indicates 3% of the student population. Bush Post Primary School in Dundalk had 9 foreign students, accounting for 2% of student population in 2011.

In primary school non-Irish students accounted for 13% of the student population In primary school, non-Irish students accounted for 13% of the student population, this is higher than in secondary schools. The two largest non-Irish groups are those from New EU countries (that joined the EU in 2004) and Africa. The strong presence of the African population can explain why there is a large group of African students in primary schools in County Louth.

46

Figure 3.15: Share of non-Irish nationalities among primary school pupils in Louth

Non-Irish groups among primary school pupils, Co. Louth (2012/13) 685

700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0

101

674

183 52

10

77

51

135

Higher concentration of non-Irish students in some primary schools, especially St. Nicholas National School in Dundalk, where 84% of the student population are non-Irish nationals The distribution of non-Irish students in Louth primary schools is uneven. The graph below shows the top 10 schools rated by the number of non-Irish students. These schools tend to be large or medium-sized schools. Rathmullen National School and La Cheile Educate Together School in Drogheda, St. Joseph and St. Paul National schools in Dundalk and Aston Village Educate Together School have the largest number of nonIrish students. In those schools non-Irish student also tend to make up a large percentage of the student population. However, it is St. Nicholas National School in Dundalk where non-Irish students account for the largest proportion of total number of students; that is 84% of the total student population, although their total population of students is lower than the aforementioned schools.

47

Figure 3.16: Top Ten Primary Schools in Louth as per Number of Non-Irish Pupils

Top 10 primary schools in Dundalk as per the number of nonIrish students (2012/13) ST NICHOLAS MONASTERY NS, Dundalk SCOIL NA MBRAITHRE SN, Drogheda C.B.S. PRIMARY, Dundalk S N SAN NIOCLAS, Dundalk MUIRE NA NGAEL NS, Dundalk RÉALT NA MARA SCHOOL, Dundalk Aston Village Educate Together… ST PAULS SENIOR NS, Drogheda ST JOSEPHS N S, Dundalk LE CHEILE EDUCATE TOGETHER,… RATHMULLAN N S, Drogheda

0

72 75 82 84 103 110 131

IRISH

Non-IRISH 155 162 166 178

100 200 300 400 500 600 700

There are 11 primary schools in County Louth without registered non-Irish students; a mixture of medium-sized and small schools. Importantly, some of those schools are in Dundalk and Drogheda where there are also schools with large non-Irish student population.

Figure 3.17: List of Primary Schools in Louth without Non-Irish Pupils

Primary schools in Co. Louth without any non-Irish students (2012/13) S N TIGH AN IUBHAIR, Drogheda S N MUIRE GAN SMAL, Termofeckin S N CHAOIMHIN NAOFA, Dunleer SCOIL DAIRBHRE MIXED, Dundalk S N OILIBEAR B., Dundalk

IRISH

BELLURGAN N S, Ravensdale

Non-IRISH

DULARGY MIXED N S, Ravensdale WALSHESTOWN N S, Clogherhead S N BHRIDE, Omeath

ARDEE MONASTERY, Ardee

0

50 100 150 200 250 300

48

Looking at the whole group of 72 primary schools in Dundalk, further evidence can be seen about the concentration of migrants in certain schools and absence in others. Apart from the 11 schools that have no non-Irish students there are also a further 26 that has very low proportion (0.4%-5.6%) and additional 8 that has low share of non-Irish students (6.4%-8.8%). Accordingly, 45 out of 72 schools have lower than average percentage of non-Irish students while only 11 has higher than average proportion (more precisely, 4 have high and 7 have very high proportion). Only 16 has an about average share of non-Irish students.

Employment Unemployment is higher among non-Irish nationals Among non-Irish nationals residing in Louth, unemployment is higher for non-EU countries in Europe and Africa According to national figures, 48 % of Irish Travellers from aged 15 years and over are unemployed In 2011, 17.09% of the total population of non-Irish nationals in Co Louth were unemployed, which is relatively higher when compared to the proportion of unemployed Irish nationals, which is 10.59% of the total population of Irish nationals. As previously mentioned, bear in mind that Irish nationals consist of naturalised Irish persons. However, this figure further confirms the observation that non-Irish nationals are at higher risk of unemployment and poverty in Ireland and Co Louth. When considering the level of unemployment among non-Irish nationals in Co Louth, as shown in the table below, unemployment rate is higher for the rest of Europe (non-EU States), and among Africans, which is at 19.11% and 18.11% respectively, relative to their total population.

The rate of unemployment for Irish Travellers is not available at County level. However, in Ireland, from the population of Irish Travellers aged 15 years and over (17,409 persons), 8,411persons are unemployed. Unemployment rate becomes even higher when considering the stated population for Irish Travellers in labour force. Among 9,973 Irish Travellers in labour force, 84.3% of these are unemployed.

49

Table 3.13: Unemployment among 15years and over Residing in Co Louth 2011

Nationality

Number of unemployed

Total population

% of unemployment in total population

Irish Nationals

11,451

108,104

10.59%

Non Irish Nationals

2,172

12,708

17.09%

-

EU States excl Ireland

1,466

8,365

17.52%

-

Rest of Europe

86

450

19.11%

-

Africa

349

1927

18.11%

-

Asia

200

1461

13.68%

-

Americas

44

313

14.05%

-

Other nationalities

26

180

14.44%

-

Multi-nationality

1

12

8.33%

13,623

120,812

11.27%

Total Stated

50

Social Inclusion ď&#x201A;ˇ

Housing Social housing needs in Co Louth have increased by 3,001 applicants between 2011 and 2013

The Housing Agency report indicates that housing needs and support from the housing authority have increased in Co Louth. In 2011, 808 applicants were recorded for housing needs, which went up to 3,809 applicants for housing needs in 2013. In 2013, housing need applicants that are of Irish national was 2,528. Non- Irish nationals made up 1,281 housing need applicants in 2013, which is more when compared to 135 applicants in 2011. Majority of the total applicants in 2013 are unemployed and in receipt of social welfare, which represents 2,334 of the applicants. Traveller related requirement received for housing support in 2013 was 70, indicating an increase when compared to 2011, where 4 was recorded.

Table 3.14: Share of nationalities in need of housing (Census 2011) Irish

Non-EU

EU

Total

Number of households as per broad nat. groups

673

92

43

Share of broad nat. groups with housing needs

83.3%

11.4%

5.3%

100%

Share of broad nat. in total local population

81.5%

4.5%

14.0%

100%

808

Non-Irish nationals may be more likely in need of housing support

When compared relatively to the total population of nationality, housing needs among non-Irish nationals appear to higher at 10%, than Irish nationals, which indicates 2.3% of the total population of Irish nationals. This figure may suggest that non-Irish nationals are more likely to be in need of housing support.

51

Table 3.15: Social Housing Support Assessment by Nationality in Louth 2013 (Housing Agency 2013)

Housing Needs Assessment in Louth Classified by Nationality Nationality Louth Co Council Drogheda Borough Dundalk Town Irish national 742 844 942 Non-Irish national 170 636 475 EU national - 131 - 506 - 323 Non EU national - 39 - 130 - 152 TOTAL OF APPLICANT FOR HOUSING NEED â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3,809 Nationality Irish

Population 108,104

Percentage of housing need support 2.3%

Non- Irish

12,708

10%

238 Travellers are in accommodation provided by Louth Local Authority or with the assistance of the Local Authority

In general, Irish Travellers have accommodation options, which are: 16standard local authority housing, Traveller specific accommodation (halting sites, group housing, etc.), private rented accommodation (assisted by local authority or voluntary organisations), private rented accommodation (which Travellers fund through their own resources) and home ownership. According to the Annual Count 2013, in Co Louth 238 Travellers are in accommodation provided by Louth Local Authority or with the assistance of the Local Authority. The table below indicates a breakdown of accommodation type of Travellers in Louth.

Table 3.16: Traveller Families in Louth, Classified by Accommodation Arrangement (Annual Count 2013) Type of Accommodation Number Standard Local Authority Housing

142

Local Authority Group

20

Private Houses Assisted by Local Authority

56

Provided by Voluntary Bodies with Local Authority Assistance

18

Local Authority Halting Sites

2

Accommodation Provided by Local Authority or Local Authority Assistance

238

On Unauthorised Sites

6

Accommodated by or with Assistance of Local Authority and on Unauthorised Sites

244

16

Taken from Why Travellers Leave Traveller-Specific Accommodation ( Housing Agency 2014)

52

ď&#x201A;ˇ

Direct Provision Centre in Dundalk for Refugees in Waiting 25 residents in the direct provision centre- Carrol Village Dundalk Residents in Mosney Direct Provision Centre in Co Meath may reside in Louth after refugee status is granted

Figure 3.18: Number of residents in direct provision center by County (Reception Integration Agency 2014)

According to the Reception and Integration Agency, there were 25 people living the direct provision centre in Dundalk as of June 2014. The direct provision centre in County Louth currently has the smallest number of residents when compared to other direct provision centres around the country. In recent past years, the capacity of Carrol Village was larger than it is now. For instance in January 2001, Carroll Village housed about 121 residents. The occupancy has dropped over time due to transfer of residents to other direct provision centres around the country. However, there is high tendency that residents of Carrol Village in Dundalk remain in the county after refugee status is granted due to its nearness to Dublin, experience living in the county, and other preferred reasons. Similarly some of the residents in Mosney direct provision centre (Co Meath) decide to settle in Co Louth after residency status has been granted by the government. A major reason to this decision is the location of Mosney, which is near to County Louth. Residents in Mosney also relate in social and economic capacity, with the wider community living Drogheda and may access services in other parts of Co Louth. 53

ď&#x201A;ˇ

Social Networks Opportunity for building social networks exist, but recent empirical study shows it may have declined

Getting on: From Migration to Integration, a large study of four ethnic groups in 2008, highlighted that, notwithstanding negative experiences, many ethnic minorities of immigrant background build strong social networks in Ireland. The study concentrated on four main ethnic groups, and examined the experience of 400 immigrants, half of whom were living in Dublin. The research found that approximately half of those surveyed spent time with Irish people. A small difference was noted among the four ethnic groups: Lithuanians were the least likely and Nigerians were the most likely to have regular contact with Irish people, while Chinese and Indians fell in the middle. While there may be existing opportunities for building social network, recent case studies from this planning process for developing Louth integration strategy, suggest that some individuals from members of minority communities experience isolation and loneliness. ď&#x201A;ˇ

Reporting of Racist Incidents and Discrimination Low reporting of racist incidents and discrimination

In reporting racist incidents, figures at national level suggest that there is a large degree of under-reporting by victims of racist incidents across the country. We assume this trend is repeated in Co Louth. In the planning process for Louth Integration Strategy, some participants mentioned their experience of racism and discrimination in Louth, but to date systematic, thirdparty recording of incidents in the county has not occurred. A nationwide alternative, which was launched in July 2013 by ENAR Ireland is the iReport mechanism. The use of this NGO mechanism is still expanding, but currently in Co Louth, there is no reporting centre or support for victims linked to ENAR Ireland iReport. The non-existence of a structured reporting mechanism in Louth, explains the nil cases of racist incidents from Louth, in the iReport.17 Table 3.18 below shows that the level of formal racist incident reporting to GardaĂ­ in Co Louth, as elsewhere, has been extremely low.

17

http://www.enarireland.org/ireport/

54

Table 3.17: Racism reporting to An Garda SiochĂĄna over past decade (Source: OPMI, 2013)18 Year reported 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 No. of racist incidents reported in Ireland No. of racist incidents reported in Co Louth

70

104

176

217

175

128

127

142

100

92

Active Citizenship / Participation ď&#x201A;ˇ

Volunteering19 Based on stated nationalities, 10 % of the population of non-Irish nationals in Louth were registered to volunteer with Louth Volunteer Centre

Figure 3.19: Percentage of Stated Nationality of Registered Volunteers 2006-2014 (Louth Volunteer Centre) Available Nationality of Registerd Volunteers with Louth Volunteer Centre 2006-2014

22% Irish national

78%

Non Irish national

Out of the 3,473 volunteers who have registered (noting their nationality) with Louth Volunteer Centre between 2006 and August 2014, 22% were non-Irish; that is 759 people. Majority of those were Nigerians. As non-Irish nationals (12,708 persons) made Note: Incidents recorded as racist on the Garda Pulse System may be subject to later revision; also there was a change in the Garda Divisional District between Meath and Louth in 2008, but it is assumed this change has not affected earlier figures. 19 Figures for volunteering in Louth was provided by Louth Volunteer Centre, based of available data 18

55

up around 10% of the general population of non-Irish nationals in 2011, this means that non-Irish nationals are well represented among registered volunteers and in their relative population, than Irish nationals, where 2.5% of the population of Irish nationals(108,104 persons) were registered volunteers.

In addition, the number of registered Irish nationals includes ethnic minorities who have become Irish citizens. This suggests that volunteers with a migrant background may represent an even higher percentage in the population. However, volunteering among non-Irish nationals in Co Louth is still below average. Majority of the respondents that participated in the planning process for Louth Integration Strategy are aware of Louth Volunteer Centre, and some have volunteered for a short period of time, but without registering with Louth Volunteer Centre. According to some adult participants, their experience of volunteering didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lead to a job position, and with financial difficulties, the motivation for considering volunteering is low.

ď&#x201A;ˇ

Political participation Improved electoral registration of ethnic minorities in politics, but low representation and candidacy in local politics

In 2009, there were three non-Irish candidates that took part in the local election; two in Dundalk and one in Drogheda. While none of them got elected, they did well: Benedicta Attoh got 585, George Enyoazu collected 406, and Yinka Dixon Oludayie received 261 votes, respectively. Georgey Eyoyazu, a Green Party candidate came the closest by taking the fifth place in a four-seat constituency while Benedicta Attoh, a Fine Gael candidate, came 8th in a six-seat constituency. In 2014, there was only one migrant candidate in County Louth, more specifically in the Dundalk-Carlingford local electoral area. Sylwia Jakubas received 71 votes and did not get elected.

In February 2013 there were 5,203 non-Irish nationals registered for election in County Louth. They made up an estimated 52.0% of the total voting age population. This is much higher than nationwide where only about a third of adult non-Irish nationals were registered. Further research would be necessary to establish reasons for the better representation of non-Irish nationals in the electoral register.

56

Chapter 4 Methodology of Planning Process

57

Overview of Planning Process Method The method used in this planning process was selected as a preferred technique to conduct an effective community research that is participatory and represents the voice and perspective of participants in the research. Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) is a globally recognised social research technique that actively involves people affected by an issue, taking a leading role in producing change. The Integration Centre use this method in the planning process of developing integration strategies across the country to enhance the participation of key minority stakeholders in the design, analysis phase and implementation of the integration strategy. The main aim of the PLA planning process is to ascertain the priority needs of members of minority communities in Co Louth through the means of gathering data that can inform future initiatives tailored to meet the needs of members of minority communities. The final outcome of the analysed data gathered in the planning process is the completed strategic aims and proposed actions documented in the integration strategy. In the planning process in Co Louth, two stages were observed:

STAGE ONE- Initial preparation and PLA-based planning sessions   

Formation of steering committee and agreement of terms of reference Selection of location and participants PLA-based planning sessions

STAGE TWO- Analysis of data and action proposal session     

Initial sorting of data Collation of findings, proposed actions and analysis Semi-structured inquiry with key service providers Review of analysed findings and proposed actions Action proposal meeting and final review of proposed actions

At the PLA-based planning sessions held across 10 locations, the following questions were posed to participants for response and to share their experiences: 1) Based on your own experience, what helps people feel included and at home in Co Louth?

58

2) How easy is it for members of minority communities to access local services in Co Louth? 3) What are the main challenges or problems faced by members of members of minority communities in Louth? 4) Rate the challenges according to their importance to you /your organisation 5) What can be done to address these challenges/problems over the next five years in Co Louth? *** Note: Question 2 was a supplementary question, used as a thought stimulating reflective exercise. This question is not included in the findings of the integration strategy.

Participatory Learning and Action Methodology As mentioned, this planning process was based on a Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) methodology. PLA is one of a family of participatory and generative research and planning methodologies that seek to motivate participants into action while simultaneously drawing on their local knowledge. PLA developed as a bottom-up approach to community development and planning in response to concerns about how research and planning was being done “on” people rather than “with” them. PLA is based on a very clear premise that members of local communities are the real “experts” in relation to their own socio-cultural settings and concerns. It endeavours to ensure that individuals and communities have a meaningful influence over decisions and processes that affect their lives. As a qualitative process, PLA also ensures that multiple perspectives are incorporated and taken into account in quite a free-flowing but structured way. Thus in a real sense it engenders ownership by respecting and building on their knowledge. The application of a PLA-based approach to the integration planning process in Co Louth was modelled on similar integration planning processes in places like Wicklow, Waterford City and Kilkenny, all of which included the involvement of The Integration Centre who guided this planning process.

59

Integration Planning Process Stage 1: Initial Preparation and PLA-based Planning Sessions I.

Formation of steering committee and agreement of terms of reference: In June 2014, a steering committee was formed consisting 16 members, to facilitate the overall integration planning process. This team held a preparatory meeting in June to agree terms of reference for the project and design a suitable PLA-based process. Agreement was reached on the outline of questions and PLA-tools to be used. A detailed set of guidelines20 was also developed to ensure consistency in terms of how all the PLAbased planning sessions were to be facilitated. Agreement was made on corresponding set of PLA topic banners and resources. At this stage, the steering committee team decided that all planning meetings would be open to organisational and community representatives alike. It was decided to include an option of an online platform for a planning session to reach more diverse participants due to the summer holiday. Details around location and venue selection, and strategies for publicising these open meetings, were also finalised.

II.

Selection of participants and locations: The scope for the selection of participants in the planning process was centred on members of minority communities recognised under the Peace III target groups in Co Louth. As such the participants were individuals from the following target community groups: Church of Ireland (Protestant community), Irish Travellers and Ethnic minorities (including Muslim community) in Co Louth. During the planning process, selection of participants was based on purposeful sampling technique, which targeted ethnic minority individuals from the top 15 countries of birth outside Ireland. These top 15 counties of birthplaces are the highest population of ethnic minorities living in Co Louth. The selection of participants from Church of Ireland, Traveller community and Muslim community was through specific representatives who could speak with insight in relation to the perspectives and experiences of their wider community. Overall, 116 participants of 38 different nationalities and 33 countries of birthplaces (including Ireland) were represented. The locations for the PLA-based planning sessions covered four municipal areas in Co Louth; urban and rural, in order to ensure a balanced range of perspectives. Ten different planning sessions were held in Dundalk, Drogheda, Ardee and Carlingford areas. The table below is an outline of the venue, area, and number of participants. It is

20

These guidelines were modelled on a template designed for Wicklow in 2009 by CPS Galway and have since been adopted and refined by The Integration Centre for use in a number of local planning processes.

60

important to note that while participant numbers at the meetings was low, the level of engagement and quality of input from those who did attend was very high.

Table 4.1: List of areas and number of participants in Louth Integration Planning Sessions

Louth Integration Planning Sessions - July - August 2014 #

Time

Date

1

10.30am

2

10am

Friday 25 July-2014

3

2pm

Tuesday 29 July-2014

4

2pm

Thursday 31 July-2014 Creative Spark

5

12pm

Monday 11 August-2014 Carlingford Heritage Centre

6

11am

Thursday 14 August-2014 The Barbican Centre

7

12noon

8

2pm

9

9pm

10

open

Area

Thursday 17 July-2014 Redemmer Family Resource Centre Cox's Demesne

SP#

Total#

5

2

7

Dundalk

7

4

11

The Barbican Centre

Drogheda

4

3

7

Muirhevnamore

8

7

15

Carlingford

4

3

7

Drogheda

12

7

19

Dundalk

7

0

7

Ardee

4

3

7

Dundalk

8

0

8

Open

28

0

28

87

29

116

Friday 15 August-2014 Louth County Museum Friday 29 August-2014 United Sisters Rockfield August 1-August 31

Comm#

Louth Leader Partnership Court

Saturday 16 August-2014 St Mary's Club

Comm- Community SPService Provider

III.

Venue

Online platform Total Number of Participants= 116

PLA-based Planning Sessions (July-August 2014): As previously mentioned, ‘Participatory Learning and Action’( PLA), is a participatory research and planning methodology that was developed to enhance the involvement of local communities in decision-making processes that impact on their everyday lives. The tools are to accommodate cross-cultural communication, regardless of language and literacy abilities, or levels of experience within multi-stakeholder planning processes. An outline of the process of the PLA-bases planning sessions used in the integration planning process is below. a. Registration and Ground Rules During the planning process, 10 PLA-based planning meetings took place, each for the duration of three-four hours. An identical process was used across all planning meetings. Participants were made feel welcome and assured that individual input would be treated confidentially. Participants were also invited to indicate whether or not they wished to be included in photos and/or become involved in future actions to arise from this integration planning process. All details were recorded on “Registration and Consent Forms. In order to promote fluid but inclusive discussion, a set of groundrules was also outlined at the start of planning sessions, and participants could add their own suggestions.

61

b. Mapping Existing Positives Question 1: Based on your own experience, what helps people feel included and at home in Louth? At the beginning of each planning session, participants were given prepared charts using a combination of words, photos that mapped out their positive integration-related experiences. Participants were asked to choose 2-3 photos that closely relates to their positive experiences that makes them feel at home in Louth, and to also describe the

positive initiative that each chosen photo represented. This approach effectuated discussions, arguments and storytelling among participants, which contributed to the quality of data and case studies gathered during the planning process for the strategy development. o

c. Access to Services Question 2: How easy is it for members of minority communities to access local services in Co Louth? In order to spur the group of participants into active engagement in the planning process and point out examples of areas in services that could emerge as categories

62

from the planning process, the question above was posed about access to services. This second question was intended as a supplementary question to productively stimulate the thoughts of participants through the planning process, and as such the data collected is not included in the findings of this planning process. Participants were given a list of local services and asked to rate each area according to how easy they felt it is for members of minority communities to access local services in their respective areas. Individual responses were rated on a scale of 5 down to 0, where 5 means ‘ it is very easy for ethnic minorities to access local services ’, while 0 indicated ‘not at all easy’. Ratings were represented with ‘a tick’, within each section of the matrix. A sample copy of the matrix for this question can be viewed in the appendix section.

d. Identifying Challenges to Integration Question 3a: What are the main challenges/problems faced by members of members of minority communities in Louth?

Participants examined principal challenges to integration in Louth, based on their own experiences. Working in subgroups of three or four, participants brainstormed to generate as many issues as possible in response to ‘question 3a’. Then, each of group sorted, categorised and summarised the information derived from their respective brainstorming processes, with the assistant of the facilitator. Overlaps between the various issues named by respective groups were identified and in some cases a number of categories were merged. This facilitated discussion continued until the overall group was satisfied with the condensed list of what they viewed as the principal challenges to integration in Louth.

63

e. Rating the Importance of Challenges Question 3b: Rate the challenges according to their importance to you /your organisation

Participants were asked to rate identified issues according to what they felt was most significant for themselves; while organisational representatives were asked to consider the perspective of their organisation for the rating process. Participants’ rating was based on individual opinions and was done by a simple voting process. Each participant was given 30 blue sticky dots; one sticky dot represented one vote count. Using the sticky dots, participants were asked to vote across the categorised identified issues, giving the highest number of vote (stick dots) to the issue that is most important to them. The same rating process was performed by representatives from organisation, but using a red sticky dot, to differentiate the vote count. The overall purpose in rating of issues is to determine the preference of importance to participants, to guide service provides on future plans to addressing issues faced by members of minority communities. f. Case Record and Discussion of Issues The facilitator posed questions formed around the categorised issues that emerged from each planning session. The questions were centred on quality of services and the level of satisfaction with living in Co Louth. Using a ranking exercise, participants were asked to respond to these questions by standing beside a number scale of 1-7, where 1 represents most satisfied and 7 represents least satisfied. Participants were later asked to give reasons, cite cases and experiences that explained their preferred choice on the number scale, while the facilitator recorded the discussion. Some of the question asked were: ‘on a scale of 1-7, how satisfied are you with the provision of English language classes in your area’, ‘…how satisfied are you with policing’, ‘…how satisfied are you with relationship with the wider community…’ The purpose of this exercise is to record

64

the experiences and cases of members of minority communities, which is included in the findings and analysis chapter of this document.

g.

Proposing Actions to Identified Challenges

Question 4: What can be done to address these challenges/problems over the next five years in Co Louth? This question focused on the challenges identified in each planning session, with reference to the categorised summary of issues completed by participants themselves during the process of question 3. The objective of this section was to propose as many actions as possible, while encouraging participants to think about possible actions from the following three perspectives: (1) What they themselves could do as individuals; (2) What actions could be done by local communities; and individuals (3) What could be done exclusively by local service providers?

Stage 2: Analysis of Data and Action Proposal Meeting I.

Initial sorting of data

The data collected from the questions 1, 3 and 4, across the ten planning sessions were all examined by the staff of Integration Centre to sort the data into the right categories that were identified by the participants themselves. From experience of conducting 65

series of PLA-based planning sessions, some participants tend to assign their responses to an unsuitable category. Therefore, sorting the collected data produces undistorted and effective result during the analysis stage.

II.

Collation of findings, proposed actions and analysis

In August, a team of 10 volunteers held two days session of collating and analysing findings that emerge from the planning process. The team of volunteers were mostly of migrant background with experience living as a minority in Louth, and also in building social capital. All positive initiatives, identified challenges and actions were collated from the 10 planning sessions. The findings were reviewed, grouped and analysed into appropriate categories, taking out overlaps and creating new categories when needed. The team came up with categories of 12 positive initiatives, 15 challenges and 80 actions.

The findings were finally analysed under the four EU performance indicators for integration (education and training, employment and finance, social inclusion and active citizenship/participation). At the end of the completed analysis, the team came up with a comprehensive summary of local positive initiatives to integration, challenges to integration and actions that can be done to address these challenges. Results of the rating exercises were also reviewed and compared to get a sense of which issues were most significant for those who participated in the planning process. Results were also disaggregated so that the perspectives of communities could be compared to that of organisations who had participated in the planning process.

66

III.

Semi-structured inquiry with key service providers

Certain service providers that would have direct contact with members of minority communities were contacted with questions regarding nature of service provided to members of minority communities, and possible gaps encountered during contact with individuals from members of minority communities. The purpose of contacting service providers was to acquire added information that outlines the perspectives of service providers during contact with members of minority communities. Majorly, the information fed into the positive initiatives developed in support of integration in Louth, either still ongoing or that had been completed. The following questions were sent to key service providers: • • • •

Level of contact your service has with members of members of minority communities Main reasons/ purpose for contact Agency’s approach to members of members of minority communities Key issues and challenges you face when engaging with minority clients

The complied positive initiatives from the questions above are included in the introduction chapter of this document.

IV.

Review of analysed findings and proposed actions

Overall, the emerged categorised findings on positive initiatives and challenges to integration completed by the analysis team, were finally reviewed by staff of Integration Centre. The review produced 14 positive initiatives and 10 challenges, which was finetuned and disaggregated into urban and rural areas for interpretation. The collated actions from the planning sessions was also reviewed and 50 actions emerged from the review. A summary of the reviewed findings was later presented to staff of statutory bodies and service providers that attended the action planning meeting in September.

V.

Action proposal meeting and final review of proposed action

In September, an action planning meeting was held with statutory bodies and service providers. The aim of the meeting was to review the 50 proposed actions for Louth integration action plan and strategy, collated from the 2 day analysis sessions held with the analysis team. At the beginning of the action proposal meeting, the summary of findings collated from the planning process was presented to the participating organisations. Staff of the participating statutory bodies were given 30 sticky dots as 67

votes, and were requested to rate the list of 10 analysed challenges in relative to their importance of service provided. At the final stage of the meeting, the participants were separated into working subgroups on whatever thematic range of issues most interested them. Large summary charts for each theme had been prepared in advance to include brief outlines of the key positives and challenges that had been identified during the planning process. Table 4.2: Action matrix template used during proposed action meeting with statutory bodies Theme: Challenges to address in Louth: Support Actions Selected Lead Organisation? Timeframe organisation

The focus of the action proposal meeting was to review the 50 proposed action and choose at least 5 feasible actions in each theme, to be included in the integration strategy. They were given a choice to participate in the theme that closely relates to their area of service provided. At the end of the meeting, 36 actions were selected and edited as recommendations for Louth integration strategy.

.

68

Chapter 5 Findings and Result of Study

69

Intro to Findings and Result The focus of this research study as stated in the introductory chapter, is to carry out a research planning process with individuals from/ and representatives of members of minority communities in order to develop a five year integration strategy that will serve as an action plan and reference guide to advance the inclusion of members of minority communities in Co Louth. Using participatory learning and action (PLA) research method and visual techniques, the study collated the views, opinions and needs of participants from members of minority communities and representatives living in Co Louth. The participants were guided to respond to four research questions as follow: 

Based on your own experience, what helps people feel included and at home in Co Louth?



What are the main challenges or problems faced by members of members of minority communities in Louth?



Rate the challenges according to their importance to you /your organisation



What can be done to address these challenges/problems over the next five years in Co Louth?

The data presented in the findings was collated over a period of three months from 11 research planning meetings that were held across Co Louth. In addition the presented data went through 4 stages of sorting, categorisation and analysis with the support of 10 volunteers from members of minority communities and representatives. The recommendations documented in the action plan/strategy section were reviewed and finalised with the support of member staff from statutory bodies and service providers in Co Louth. In this chapter, the key findings of the study (i.e. positive initiatives and challenges to integration) are analysed under four themes, which were chosen and agreed beforehand with the Louth Integration Strategy Committee Members. The themes are adopted from the European Union indicators for measuring Integration, which are:    

Education and Training Employment and Business Social Inclusion { anti-discrimination, anti-racism and access to local services} Active Citizenship and Participation

This section of result and findings from the planning process is presented in the following structure:

70

o Summary of result and key findings (positive initiatives, challenges to integration, and the profile of participants in the planning process) o Summary of local initiatives developed with focus on inclusion of members of minority communities in Co Louth o Analysis of key findings(positive initiatives as perceived by participants, challenges to integration , rating of importance of challenges, comparison of top five rated challenges in urban and rural areas in Louth).

Summary of Result and Key Findings

Figure: 5.1 Category of positive initiative mentioned in Louth integration planning process classified by percentage of participants that mentioned each category Opoortunities for young people to get active 2%

Inclusion through sport 11%

Educational opportunities 9%

Participation in commuity action and/or politics 10%

Training on useful topics and skills 5% Ability to get jobs 3% Starting new business 1% Availability of services and amenities 15%

Interaction with other cultures 12%

Relationship with Family and Friends 4% Ability to practice different religions 8%

Welcoming and acceptance 8%

Good, Safe and peaceful environment 9% Government measures to address discrimination 3%

71

Perception of Participants on Positive Integration Initiatives in Co Louth: The categories listed in the figure above are the analysed perceptions of 116 respondents to the positive initiatives that make them feel at home since living in Co Louth. A minimum of 284 different topics were raised by respondents, and was later sorted into 14 categories. All the participants mentioned at least 2 different topics that make them feel at home and included in Louth, regardless of their residential location in the urban or rural areas. The figure above indicates the percentage of participants that commented on each category. Availability of services and amenities was mostly mentioned, indicating 15% of the total number of respondents that participated in the planning meetings. Interaction with other cultures follows at 12%, and inclusion through sport is third, mentioned by 11% of respondents. Considering that 100% of the participants had positive experiences of living in Louth, it is estimated that from 15,604 ethnic minorities residing in Louth, a proportion above average is likely to have experiences that may be attributed to positive living in Co Louth. Regardless, it is necessary to note that negative experiences of possible exclusion also persist among members of minority communities in Co. Louth.

Challenges to Integration Faced by Members of minority communities in Co Louth Figure 5.2: Overall Rating of Problems/ Difficulties to Integration in County Louth (2014) 0%

2%

4%

6%

Language and communication difficulties Education and training

16% 5%

Inadequate employment opportunities Barriers to employment and business Access to accurate information on services

12% 7% 5%

Access to services, esp. housing, creche & transport

17%

Quality of services, esp. in health & policing

7%

Social & cultural isolation; & lack of support

7%

Negative attitudes & discrimination Participation in politics & service delivery

8% 10% 12% 14% 16% 18% 20%

17% 8%

72

Individuals from members of minority communities are more likely to experience problems when relating with the wider community and mainstream structures in the society. Difference, unfavourable policies and non-inclusive management practices are core reasons to the vulnerability of members of minority communities. Despite acknowledging positive experiences toward inclusion, participants voiced their concerns and opinions on what is perceived as challenges to integration of members of minority communities in Louth. Respondents listed over 200 issues that was sorted and analysed into 10 major categories that can be seen in the figure above.

As shown, figure 5.2 indicates the total rating on the level of importance to each categorised challenges by respondents, which in this case are participants from members of minority communities and service providers. Service providers and minority community participants were asked to indicate by voting across the listed challenges, to indicate their preference of importance from the perspectives of work and experiences with integrating respectively.

Overall, four challenges emerged in the rating to be of most importance. Access to services, especially housing, crèche and transport scored 17%, similar to negative attitudes and discrimination. Language and communication difficulties is rated second (16%), while inadequate employment opportunities is third at 12%. Participation and service delivery is voted on the average at 8%. An analysis of how the challenges was rated differently by service providers and participants will be discussed later in this chapter.

Profile of Participants in Planning Process Excluding the action planning meeting held with service providers and statutory bodies, 116 individuals from members of minority communities and their representatives participated in the participatory planning sessions. The participants were of 38 different nationalities born in 33 countries, including Ireland. Top fifteen foreign countries of birthplaces reported in the Census 2011, are represented in the Louth strategy planning process, except England and Wales, Scotland, Romania and Philippines. Gender consist of male, female, adults and young people who are immigrants, from the Traveller community and the Church of Ireland.

73

Table 5.1: Nationality profile of participants in Louth Integration Planning Process 2014 Nationality Profile of Participants in Louth Planning Process 2014

Nigerian-Polish Polish Irish Cuban Nigerian Zimbabwean-Irish Irish-Zambian French BurkinabĂŠ Lithuanian South Sudanese Indian Spanish

Russian Ghanian Dutch Bangladeshi Australian Irish-Algerian Kenyan-Irish South African-Irish Indian-Irish United States Togolese Chinese-Irish Somali-British

Somali Colombian Nigerian-Irish Latvian Slovekian Swedish Malaysian Ukrainian Mexican Pakistani-Irish Brazillian Norwegian

TOTAL OF NATIONALITIES = 38

Table 5.2: Birthplace of participants in Louth Integration Planning Process 2014

Birthplace of Participants in Louth Planning Process 2014 Ireland Northern Ireland Poland Lithuania Nigeria Latvia United States China Burkina Faso Cuba South Africa

Australia Norway China India Pakistan Bangladesh Mexico Algeria Ukraine Malaysia Spain

Brazil Sweden Slovakia Russia Netherlands Togo Zimbabwe South Sudan France Somalia Kenya

TOTAL COUNTRY OF BIRTHPLACE REPRESENTED= 33

74

Analysis: Positive Perceptions of Participants on Integration Initiatives in Co Louth At each planning session, respondents were asked, â&#x20AC;&#x153;What makes them feel included and at home in Co Louthâ&#x20AC;?. The frequency of categories shown above indicates the number of times each topic was mentioned across 10 planning sessions that were held across Co. Louth, and it is also equal to the number of people that contributed to each categorised topic. However the frequency data does not indicate the value of importance of each topic to the respondents. Rather we observed during the planning research that the mentioned topics came up in the planning sessions because the respondents believed they were all of importance to them. Below is the complete list of categories showing positive initiatives raised by respondents and some specifics around them.

Figure 5.3: A distribution of positive initiatives stated by 116 Participants across Louth Integration Planning Sessions Frequency 0 10 20 30 40 50 Educational opportunities

26

Category of Postive Initiative

Training on useful topics and skills

13

Ability to get jobs Starting new business

9 4

Availability of services and amenities

42

Good, Safe and peaceful environment

24

Government measures to address discrimination

8

Welcoming and acceptance

23

Ability to practice different religions

24

Relationship with Family and Friends

12

Interaction with other cultures

33

Participation in commuity action and/or politics Opoortunities for young people to get active

Inclusion through sport

29 6 31

75

THEME 1: EDUCATION AND TRAINING 

Educational opportunities:

Of the 116 people consulted during the integration planning process, some 26 people believed that Co Louth offered good educational opportunities. This was the fifth highest category of the fourteen categories mentioned by the consultees. Respondents felt that there is good access to both primary and secondary school, good access to educational support and allowances, and equal access to DKIT if admission requirement are met. There was a good perception by the respondents on the quality of schools for their children in Co Louth. It was also mentioned by some respondents, particularly those from poorer developing countries that they welcomed the opportunities that girls had in receiving and affordable and quality schooling. Our meeting in Ardee gave very positive feedback on the role and influence of the local Educate Together School. The many different faiths, ethnicities and nationalities attending the school was considered very beneficial. 

Training and useful topics:

Respondents were positive about the adult training available to ethnic minorities in Co Louth. Training opportunities was cited by 13 people. Some services providers such as LMETB, Tara Training and Louth Leadership Partnership were noted for their access to training and helping people develop skills. One of such course was around domestic violence, which helped participants deal with this challenging issue; computer skills, IT training; English language; and FETAC certification courses. Other topics that were felt useful were around mental health, intercultural dialogue and start your business. Concern was expressed about how cutbacks nationally had impacted on the range of training and courses available. Also some of the trainings were offered once, while others is currently discontinued.

THEME 2: EMPLOYMENT AND BUSINESS 

Ability to get jobs:

Quite a small number of people raised this topic only nine from 116 respondents. Those who felt positive about this expressed the relative ease to move jobs, the much fairer 76

way jobs were allocated, the fact that jobs are publically advertised. Also raised as important was the ability to make friends with the majority community through the workplace. It was reported to the integration planning officers that in Carlingford, some Travellers are able to secure employment, but this may not be the case in other areas, especially in urban areas, where, according to the respondent, Travellers face much more discrimination. 

Starting a new business:

Of the fourteen topics raised during the planning sessions this was the one cited the least, with only four respondents mentioning it. Those that raised the issue noted how the business environment is transparent and favourable. An African woman gave an example of ‘how her friend benefited from the start up business and mentorship programme delivered by Louth Enterprise office’. It was also noted that starting a shop in Co Louth is straightforward.

THEME 3: SOCIAL INCLUSION 

Availability of services and amenities:

In our planning sessions this topic was the most frequently raised. Some forty two respondents cited it positively. Equitable housing policies, good and sensitive health care, extensive transport system, comprehensive home care and social welfare services were all raised positively and people’s experience of their interaction with the state was good.

Respondents felt the service provided by the Citizens Information Service was invaluable and helped newcomers understand their rights and how to access statutory services. One of the respondent commented on his experience of the fair treatment in accessing housing provided by the Council Authority. In addition many of the respondents talked about the beauty of the environment, the scenery of Co Louth and how clean the County is.

77

The role of An Garda Siochana was commended. Respondents spoke about the friendly and helpful service they provide. This was raised at each and every meeting held across Co Louth.



Good safe and peaceful environment:

The Irish Peace Process and how it has transformed the border areas was commended by members of minority communities. Respondents felt that the associated PEACE projects were great at binding the community together and, other ethnic minorities living in Ireland could share their experience of conflict from their home countries. Respondents felt their experience and understanding of ethnic conflict was valued and the majority communities were interested. Respondents noted of how elections are peaceful in Ireland, ‘that gangland activity is minimal’ and ‘they feel safe in Co Louth compared to Dublin’. The work done by An Garda Siochana to keep violence and physical harassment under control was also commended. 

Government measure to address discrimination:

Only eight respondents raised this as a positive development. Those respondents were aware of legislation such as the Equal Status Act and Employment Equality Act. They also were up to date on the approach by the government to commission a new national integration plan and the appointment of a junior minister for ‘new communities’. It was noted though that some of the bodies, which have promoted equality, and awareness of ethnic minorities such as the NCCRI have closed and respondents thought that the work they did was very important. 

Welcoming and acceptance:

This was a topic positively seen by the respondents with nearly a quarter of them mentioning the welcoming attitude of the majority community. People described the native resident of Co Louth as ‘friendly’, ‘warm’ and ‘outgoing’. From experience some respondents mentioned how good it was to see their children being accepted in schools, clubs and playgrounds without discrimination or racism. The staff of DKIT, Louth Volunteer Centre and the Dundalk Library were singled out for praise by some members of minority communities. It was noted that the Irish are very generous when welcoming leaders from ethnic minority home countries. The visit of Desmond Tutu was mentioned in this regard. 78

Respondents noted positively how they are accepted at work and that the majority community is ‘curious’ about their background, culture, food and religious beliefs. It was discussed that the accepting attitude of some Irish natives have changed over time. However, some respondents were also of the opinion that the welcoming attitude towards minority communities has changed over time. They mentioned experiencing hostility, verbal harassment and people keeping to themselves. A participant said “Irish people were initially welcoming, now you walk on the street and hear people tell you to go back home”. Another naturalised Irish participant said,” I find Irish natives to have a general friendly attitude, but in my opinion they find it difficult to accept us because of our difference. I was recently told by an Irish native that I can only wish to be Irish and can never be one, even as a naturalised Irish Citizen”.



Ability to practice different religions:

The freedom to safely practice own religion was something seen as positive by 24 of the 116 respondents. Some of those taking part in the integration planning process had come from countries where there were significant religious tensions. Respondents also noted how their religion and place of worship was more than just about their faith but also gave them a sense of community and belonging. Muslim respondents noted with satisfaction that restrictions on their expressions of their culture had not been introduced in Ireland. Unlike the negative behaviours experienced by some Muslim women in other Counties, the Muslim participants commented on the public’s nonharassment behaviour in Louth, toward Muslim women and their Islamic clothing. 

Relations with family and friends:

Some respondents came to Ireland to join family already established in the country. This was important to them in terms of securing work and networks of new friends. The Polish community, the largest ethnic minority, has well developed support systems in place for each other and newer Poles arriving in the County. People are developing relationship not just with their own kin but across cultures, ethnicities and religions.

THEME 4: ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP AND PARTICIPATION 

Interaction with other cultures:

33 of the respondents mentioned this as something positive. People enjoyed reaching out to new cultures and experiencing their music, food, drink and social events. Even the 79

participation with the integration planning process was mentioned. There was 38 different nationalities represented in the whole process. Community gathering and multicultural events held in some areas has generated interest and is now seen as a necessity. Local radio and newspapers allow ethnic minorities to keep up to date with what’s happening in their local as well as the opportunity to present their lives in the local media. Participants in Drogheda, Dundalk and Carlingford areas applauded the diversity events that was funded by LMEC and organised by local groups in the areas. It was said that ‘the events created a platform for interaction among diverse communities living locally’. Most minority community groups appreciate every opportunity given to them to show case their cultural background and improving understanding of their dominant cultures. It is seen as fundamental to acceptance and integration in the society. 

Participation in community action/and or politics:

More than a quarter of the respondents noted their freedom to participate in the local democratic initiatives as something important. They acknowledged the fact they can protest, join local action groups, lobby politicians and even vote in local elections. Some respondents had even joined local political parties. A respondent from Africa spoke ‘of their appreciation to relate with Voluntary work with Louth Volunteer Centre as well as local residents committees are seen as vital in engaging with the community. Some of the respondents reported on the opportunity to volunteer in their local community. 

Opportunity for young people to get active:

Few respondents (6 participants) raised this as a positive issue. These respondents felt that schools provided important extra-curricular activities for their child to get active in their own community. Parents felt that it was important for their children to get involved in community action, such as gardening, clean ups but also talent shows and some activity type events. Parents also felt that this was important way to promote integration, as the communities would be seen to contributing to the social and civic pride and responsibilities in the communities they are living in. 

Inclusion through sport:

Sport was considered by many respondents to be a ‘great leveller”. Team sports were considered a very effective way to integrate. A respondent said, “it doesn’t matter what colour I am in my team – my teammates care about how I play not how I look”. It was also mentioned by respondents how Ireland had sports for all levels with older people catered for though activities like sailing and golf, where young people had ball sports. The GAA was mentioned by a number of respondents for their great facilities and welcoming approach.

80

Overall, during the planning sessions on positive initiatives toward integration, it was observed that respondents with a more positive view on services and amenities were clustered in the urban areas of Dundalk and Drogheda. Respondents in Ardee and Carlingford felt otherwise. In their opinion ‘services and support are clustered in the urban areas, while the rural areas is mostly forgotten’. The other two most popular positive initiatives raised by participants were interaction with other cultures and inclusion through sport. The funding of multicultural events by LMEC and LMETB increased the positive notions participants had on the opportunity for cultural interaction. As observed, a common theme in the background around the discussion on these positive initiatives was the desire to mix with other cultures and the majority community. Respondents saw all three positive initiatives (access to services and amenities, integration with other cultures, and inclusion through sport) as a way to be fully included and feel at home in Louth community.

Current Challenges to Integration Faced by Members of minority communities in Co Louth The main challenges faced by members of minority communities living in Louth were discussed and analysed in detail by 116 participants in the planning process. This section will outline the challenges as identified by those participants, and with some contextual reference to case studies and other documented facts. This section will also analyse the challenges in relative to the level of importance attributed to each categorised challenge. It should be noted that the level of importance attributed to these challenges, as depicted in figure 5.4 below, does not necessarily represent the prevalence of any particular issue in terms of the actual numbers of people affected. Instead the rating simply reflects the subjective viewpoint of those involved in this planning process; in that regard it offers an insight into which challenges would be the most important to resolve during the five-year timeframe of this strategy in order to maximise the continued involvement of those who participated in this planning process.

As shown in figure 5.4 below the following challenges were highlighted by respondents:   

Language and communication difficulties Education and training Inadequate employment opportunities 81

      

Barriers to employment and business Access to accurate information on services Access to services, especially housing, crèche and transport Quality of services especially in health and policing Social & cultural isolation; and lack of support Negative attitudes and discrimination Participation in politics and service delivery

Figure 5.4: Rating of challenges according to level of importance from the perspective of members of minority communities and service providers in Louth Integration Planning Process

Rating of challenges according to organisational or community perspectives in County Louth (2014) 0.0% 2.0% 4.0% 6.0% 8.0% 10.0%12.0%14.0%16.0%18.0%20.0% 15.9% 15.3%

Language and communication difficulties Education and training

3.9% 8.3% 13.4%

Inadequate employment opportunities

5.8% 6.8% 6.4%

Barriers to employment and business Access to accurate information on services

3.2% 11.5% 18.6%

Access to services, esp. housing, creche & transport

9.8%

Quality of services, esp. in health & policing

6.9% 5.8%

Social & cultural isolation; & lack of support

6.3% 9.8%

17.6% 16.4%

Negative attitudes & discrimination Participation in politics & service delivery

% of Vote (Communities)

7.5% 10.9%

% of Vote (Organisations)

82

THEME 1: EDUCATION AND TRAINING 

Language and communication difficulties

Language and communication difficulties was attributed 15.9% importance rate and rated by respondents to be the third most important difficulty to address toward integration in Co Louth. The effect on people is significant and the respondents rated this highly in terms of impact. People come to the country sometimes with poor English and find it difficult to get affordable school/lessons in this area. In terms of communication, both service providers and ethnic minorities can confused by one another and cross-cultural training was mentioned as being vital. Few of the respondents had received English language support and one service provider mentioned the reality that most frontline staff doesn’t have any second language. Children of migrants are more likely to develop competency in English language as they tend to pick it up very quickly at school. But many adults have problems learning the language and find themselves unable to play a role in their community, or even help their children with school work at home. Respondents felt that there was a real lack of English conversational exchange classes available and that more of them would be a low cost solution to some of the challenges around language. A newly arrived Somali participant residing in Drogheda mentioned the ‘long waiting list associated with learning English’, and as he experienced with a particular service provider, ‘there is sometimes request on minimum requirement level for learning English’, which is disadvantageous to English language beginners with low or no command of spoken English.



Education and training

This was identified by the respondents as a problem particularly in rural areas, where education and training was rated among the top five issues of importance that affect rural residents. There are little adult education opportunities in the more rural areas of the County, thereby acting as a drag on chances to integrate including getting employment. There did seem to be insufficient information on available range of and training in local community centres or schools. Respondents also complained about the type of courses available, what they needed was courses to help them navigate through Irish society and the labour market. There are certain courses and training that are of interest to members of minority communities. However access to some of these training and courses is not easy, and in some cases not available locally. A common complaint raised was around the high cost of some courses, and some adult Travellers expressed a preference for vocational based training rather than formal educational courses. Respondents also noted that there is ‘insufficient courses and English classes in the

83

evening’, which will be more suitable for part-time workers and parent minding children in the day, while their spouse is at work.

THEME 2: EMPLOYMENT AND BUSINESS 

Inadequate employment opportunities

Many respondents complained of the limited amount of employment available for members of minority communities. Participants noted the difficulty in accessing work if they didn’t know someone at the company or get a local referral for job employment. An Indian migrant worker agreed in confirmation of his own experience, where he got a job position because his wife referred him to the agency, having worked for the same agency herself ’. Other migrant participant stated that ‘work experience in their home country and home qualifications are not really valued and sometimes not recognised by employers’. At interviews, uncomfortable questions around validity of degrees and diplomas is common. Many respondents considered themselves to be underemployed in their current roles and wanted more opportunities to advance in their workplace. The lack of knowledge around ‘employment rights and uneasiness experienced in the process of getting information’ was cited by a number of respondents as being problematic.



Barriers to employment and business

Members of minority communities noted experiences seen as barriers to employment and business. The Travellers believe they are often neglected in employment and business support services due to stereotypes. Low educational levels and high drop-out rate was cited as a major barrier to employment within the Traveller community. Although Travellers would like to venture more into business start-ups, a participant said that “there is insufficient training and support for Travellers to start up their own business”. In relation to available facts, there is very high unemployment rate among Travellers in labour force nationwide. Migrant participants cited the impact of low English language proficiency as a barrier to employment. It is felt that ‘poor English language skills might hinder them from securing work, particularly in the service sectors’. However others pointed out that their ability to speak more than one language has been an advantage in securing work. A general complaint that came up repeatedly was the ‘inability to get professional qualifications 84

recognised in Ireland’, despite having this qualifications from reputable 3rd level institutions in their home country. Discrimination is seen as a barrier to gaining employment among members of minority communities including the Protestant community. Discrimination sometimes experienced by a member of Protestant community is relative to their area of residence and workplace environment. However due to the impact of the Northern Ireland conflict, members of Protestant community in Louth still face job discrimination.

THEME 3: SOCIAL INCLUSION (access to services, social relations and anti-discrimination) 

Access to accurate information about services

Whilst there is many good sources for information on rights and access to services, many ethnic minorities complained about the difficulty in establishing where to get accurate information. A respondent noted that it ‘took her months to find out about a social welfare supplement that she was unaware to claim’. Additionally, mothers complained about ‘not knowing where and how they could get affordable or free childcare’. People thought that ‘one’- stop- shop’ for services would be beneficial with both a physical presence and a simple to navigate on line website. Migrants said that knowing the legal or governance requirements of the likes of clubs, minority representative ethnic groups and residents associations was confusing and they weren’t sure how to go about organising or registering their groups if they want. Even though the importance rate of this challenge is rated low (3.2%), a participant noted that “people just arriving Co Louth from outside Ireland find it extremely difficult to navigate the system, due to inaccessible comprehensive information package on services. In another experience, a migrant worker agreed, saying “I had interest in understanding the tax system in Ireland as a full time worker, but I couldn’t access this information, while the conversation over the phone with a staff in the tax office wasn’t helpful”. The difficulty in securing credit from banks was noted and felt that migrants suffer more adversely to it, because they may have had no history of engagement with the bank.



Access to Services, Especially in Housing, Crèche and Transport

Respondents are of the opinion that access to services is an important aspect of integration and inclusion of members of minority communities in the society. It was 85

voted the highest preference of importance (18.6%) as it affects members of minority communities. In order to detail this category of challenge, access to services will be separated into 4 sub-issues for discussion: access to other services, housing, crèche and transport. The figure below indicates the disaggregated result on rating of access to services completed by respondents.

Figure 5.5: Disaggregated rating on access to services, housing, crèche and transport as stated by members of minority communities and service providers in Louth Integration Planning Process

Rating of access to services, housing, creche & transport by service providers and minority communties 15.4%

Access to other services

33.2% 30.8%

Access to Transport

9.4% 21.2%

Access to Creche

27.6%

32.7%

Access to Housing

29.9% 0.0%

5.0%

10.0%

% of vote organisation

15.0%

20.0%

25.0%

30.0%

35.0%

% vote of community

 Access to other services This is referring to other services excluding housing, transport and crèche facilities. As seen in the figure 5.4, it was rated of highest importance (33.2%) when compared to housing, crèche and transport services. Respondents noted that accessing services is sometimes more difficult for members of minority communities due to reasons such as: inadequate information, bureaucracy, unfavourable requirements and prejudice. A family man cited an example of the ‘difficulty in getting access to medical card despite earning low income wages and having a sick child with terminal illness. In addition the issue around access to disability support, and mental health support for members of minority communities was raised. It is believed that there is increase in mental health issues among members of minority communities, and the number of ethnic minorities that access mental health support is minimal. 86

 Access to housing

There is a shortage of social housing in the County that many lower income or unemployed people are placed on a long waiting list and obliged to rent in the private sector. The respondents accepted this was a problem for all the population but they felt it was compounded by the typically larger families some migrants have. Travellers noted that there were just not enough Traveller specific accommodation units and where there is the quality is poor. For many Travellers renting in the private sector is not an option as landlords won’t rent the house to them. This results in Traveller living in too close a proximity in overcrowded sites and group schemes that causes tensions and conflict on occasion. Some ethnic minorities also complained that landlords will not rent to them, due to dislike or preference of certain cultures. In Ardee, the participants simply said there is ‘no available social housing in Ardee and limited private houses for rent’.  Access to crèche facilities

Even though access to crèche facilities is rated third(27.6%) in relation to its importance, it is should be noted that this issue was raised in 2 meetings, and at the two meetings it received the highest vote when compared to the housing, transport and access to other services across the 2 meetings. Respondents were very passionate in their frustration with trying to find affordable childcare. Mothers mentioned of the ‘decision of giving up work as they couldn’t afford to work any longer due to exorbitant childcare costs’. Some mothers felt that ‘childcare managers discriminated against their child due to cultural difference and English communication difficulty’. Single parents and workers earning average pay are also affected by the high cost of childcare. A social care worker said: ” I would like my wife to work because she is qualified and desire to work, but the cost of childcare is not affordable in long-term, so we decided she stays home to look after the children”.

Most ethnic minorities find it difficult living outside their home country, with no or little family support to assist with their children. As such they may be pressing need to access affordable childcare services. Respondents also noted that it is ‘not easy to access free child care services’, especially for lone parents.

87

 Access to transport The need for improved transport service is linked to income and working hours. Some migrants cannot afford a car and they work in hours when transport service may not be available. Rural respondents complained about the paltry public transport in the area. A female participant who travels to Dundalk weekly from Carlingford said transportation is near impossible without a car when your job is outside normal working hours.



Quality of services in health

Respondents complained about the quality of communication between service providers and some ethnic minorities. A common complaint was the perception from ethnic minorities that frontline staff treated them differently than people from the majority community. A male respondent said, “staff in the social welfare office look at me differently, they are suspicious and much ruder to me than the local Irish”. The issue around medical cards came up and again ethnic minorities felt that they were discriminated against in being awarded medical cards. There seemed to be some confusion about the eligibility on medical cards with many ethnic minorities thinking it was awarded on health grounds rather than the reality which is that it is awarded on income grounds. Some ethnic minorities come from countries in conflict or post conflict and they felt that the local mental health services were inadequate both in terms of the availability of the service and appropriateness of the service that was available. They felt that services should be developed and staffed by culturally aware mental health professionals. Travellers specifically felt that their mental health needs were not being met. They maintained a view that the relationship between staff and Traveller patients was very poor and that Travellers are “treated like second classic citizens”. 

Quality of services in policing

Cultural misunderstanding exist between Gardaí and ethnic minorities. Both sides believed that there was no malice or intentional bad feeling aimed at one another but that the tensions exist due to cultural differences. Both believed that mechanism to improve communication between the communities needed to be formalised. Ethnic minorities held a perception that more Garda needed training in cultural awareness, and local ethnic minority leaders needed to liaise more effectively with Garda. Ethnic minorities complained about stereotyping. A respondent stated that in the process of seeking resolution to a particular anti-social behaviour incident, the frontline

88

Garda on duty told him “you people are the same, you can always go back to your country to avoid these problems”. Respondents in Ardee mentioned the reduced hours in some of the rural stations and how they were ‘confused about how they were supposed to communicate with Garda in the event of the local station not being open’. On the other hand, Garda is very confident of the outreach services and out of office telephone service in place for the public during closing hours. In this case, it is evident that there is need for improved communication between Garda and members of minority communities. 

Social and cultural isolation and lack of support

The diversity of ethnicity and cultures existing in Louth was pleasing to most participants, but poor inter-relations between these different ethnicities, especially among adults, was mentioned as a difficulty. Social and cultural isolation and lack of support was given 6.8% importance rating. Respondents noted that there is ‘limited opportunities to get together and meet up with people of different cultures’. They were of the opinion that ‘most Irish natives focus on socialising in Pubs and socialising becomes difficult for ethnic minorities who have no culture of spending time in Pubs’. A Swedish participant voiced her opinion that “it is actually difficult to meet and build friendship with Irish natives”. A ‘lack of facility and coordination to help ethnic minorities meet up with others and the majority community was noted’. A suggestion was made that ‘an intercultural centre that groups could make affordable use of would be beneficial’. In Ardee, the participants pointed out that ‘there was no support for cultural and integration activities in the area’. In addition activities for children is very limited. Participants in the Ardee and Carlingford felt that most projects are concentrated in Drogheda and Dundalk. Ethnic minorities felt that many people, including service providers, confused integration with assimilation. They valued their own original culture, and saw it as important to pass on to their own kids, especially their language. Some respondents raised the issue of ‘lack of motivation in community activism amongst ethnic minorities’. Some ethnic minorities complained ‘about how much time and effort they put in on behalf of their own group, yet the same group would not assist with developing links to integrate with the wider community’. It was noted that there seems to be ‘reluctance from the majority community’ to get involved in initiatives around integration. One respondent said “the Irish seem to think that integration is only about us, but it is not. It’s about us and the Irish majority. The Irish natives need to show more interest in building relationship with other communities”.

89

Few participants raised an issue about representation in school management. Some ethnic minorities would like to take part in the school Boards of Management. While it was acknowledged that some of the boards are open for election, the complaint was made that the ‘majority community were unlikely to vote for an ethnic minority representative’. It was suggested that “school boards with significant number of students with immigrant background, should set aside a certain quota for participation of ethnic minorities to reflect he composition of the school pupils”.



Negative attitudes and discrimination

This difficulty is rated second in order of importance (17.6%) as it is affects the integration of members of minority communities, which include ethnic minorities, Traveller community and the Irish/British Protestant community. Cross cutting experiences are in access to services, education and training, service delivery, employment and business opportunities. A repeated complaint was from the participants about some frontline service providers stereotyping them. A scenario was given by a respondent. She said, “I have been working full time for 8 years in Co Louth. I recently became unemployed due to recession and went to the welfare office to seek information because I was interested in springboard upskilling courses. Seeing how friendly and supportive the staff treated other Irish natives before me, I concluded she certainly treated me with an attitude that showed I could not be trusted, and that she would rather Irish natives access jobseeker support”. A representative of the Traveller community also confirmed that the Travellers face such negative attitudes when relating with staff in some public services, which is sometimes dehumanising. Although respondent from protestant community think it doesn’t happen frequently, it was noted as an issue for them, particularly when one is well known in the local area to identify with Protestantism. A Traveller complained about how he was unable to get paid employment as “companies think all Travellers are lazy or robbers”. A Polish woman stated that she overheard her own Irish boss saying that “he preferred not to employ Africans because they are less intelligent and trouble makers.” Protestant community in Louth felt that they were discriminated against. They raised the issue of hostility from the majority catholic community and “suspicions of not being really Irish”. Protestant also felts that they were discriminated in the jobs market. Some ethnic minorities observed that they felt discriminated against in the area of housing provision both by the state and private companies. Renting in the private sector, particular for Africans was difficult, and negative local media reports helped sustain these negative stereotypes. Across the range of venues and people at the Integration planning sessions, the struggle in counteracting the widespread belief that ethnic minorities were here to ‘take jobs’, 90

‘abuse social welfare’ or ‘get an Irish passport’, was mentioned by ethnic minority participants and service providers was. Collectively the participants and respondents felt that Irish people in general had quite a poor attitude to them as a group. However they noted the contradiction that while Irish people did not necessarily support “immigrants” they were supportive of the individual immigrant. Perception of discrimination mentioned included ‘discrimination by Garda in responding to distress calls from migrants’, ‘discrimination by taxi drivers in picking up ethnic minorities’ and ‘discriminations by a range of service providers in statutory agencies against migrants’. It should be noted that service providers maintained that there is no structural or attitudinal discrimination in its delivery and any complaints on services were not because of discrimination against a particular group but a reflection on the limitation of the service and recent cutbacks. From a perspective of service provision, it was noted that placements for ethnic minority volunteers are more difficult. A high number of Irish services would rather not take immigrants due to difficulty in understanding their accents. This fits in with the feedback the Integration Centre have received from other volunteer centres around the country, which is an issue that contributes to employment barriers for ethnic minorities. There was enthusiastic support from both the Garda and ethnic minorities for the introduction of a Racist Incidence and Monitoring Mechanism for the County. It was felt that the current system, which lies solely with the Garda may scare away victims, lead to under reporting of racist incidents, which is not beneficial for either the Garda or ethnic minorities.

THEME 4: ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP AND PARTICIPATION 

Participation in politics and service delivery

There is a low participation of ethnic minorities in local political process. Ethnic minorities complained about politicians not reaching out to them, and political active people complained about ethnic minorities not being interested in politics, citing the very low voter rates for the most recent local elections to back up their claim. Ethnic minorities were in general quite confused about the Irish political system, unclear on how to differentiate the parties and baffled by the voting system and the political spectrum of the political parties. The invisibility of ethnic minorities in local media and politics was mentioned. A participant “every week local politicians fill the pages of the paper, talking about everything but us…..Trees planted, potholes fixed, giving awards at sports events but never a word about us. It is weird… it is like we don’t exist”.

91

Both the new and majority communities mentioned the extremely low to non-existence level of ethnic minority staffing in services and in the council office. One Muslim man stated that his wife “found it embarrassing to have to talk with and deal with white Irish men so much” another African woman asked why jobs in all the sector such as “the library, council office, social welfare office – everyone is white and Irish”. Respondents are of the opinion that having employees from members of minority communities in service delivery will address some of the concerns voiced around negative attitudes of some frontline staff in public services and communication difficulties.

Comparison of Rated Challenges in Urban and Rural Areas Represented in Integration Planning Sessions There is general consensus from anecdotal evidence about the difference in the barriers to integration experienced by migrants residing in host country. While this notion may be valid, the possible similarities in experiences during the process of making a host country a new home should not be cast aside in future research. In this research project, it is evident from the planning sessions held in some main urban and rural areas in Louth that the problems faced by members of minority communities in both rural and urban areas are the same. However, data from the planning sessions depict differences and similarities in the level of importance to integration challenges experienced by members of minority communities in urban and rural areas. As shown in figure 5.6 below, respondents in Dundalk and Drogheda (urban areas) rated access to services, especially in housing, crèche and transport to be mostly important to them, giving it a rating of 47%. The same can be noticed for respondents in Ardee and Carlingford/Cooley Peninsula (rural areas), recording the highest vote at 24%. In general respondent in both urban and rural areas spoke of the importance of accessing public services equally and fairly without any form of discrimination. In addition, respondents in the rural areas are of the opinion that public services and local initiatives are highly concentrated in the urban areas, and resident in rural areas often feel they are neglected by service providers and the local council. It was noted in agreement by rural dwellers that access to services is below average and poor in other circumstances.

Negative attitudes and discrimination was rated second in the level of importance by both urban and rural respondents. The difference in level of importance is seen in the last three challenges. For urban respondents, they rated language and communication difficulties as third (22%), inadequate employment opportunities as fourth (18%) and participation in politics and service delivery as fifth (10%). Differently, respondents in 92

the rural areas choose the third, fourth and fifth most important challenges to be social and cultural isolation (13%), language education and training difficulties (12%), and barriers to employment and business (10%) respectively. They expressed their dissatisfaction in the low level of cultural and diversity support, access to English language courses and training for adults, and lack of employment support.

Figure 5.6: Top five rated challenges in urban and rural areas in Louth Integration Planning Sessions 2014

Top five rated challenges in urban and rural areas in Louth planning meeting 2014 Barriers to employment and business Language, education and training difficulties Social and cultural isolation, and lack of support Participation in politics & service delivery Inadequate employment opportunities Language and communication difficulties Negative attitudes & discrimination Access to services, esp. housing, creche & transport 0% Ardee, Carlingford &Cooley

10% 12% 13% 10% 18% 22% 18% 24% 47%

26% 10% 20% 30% Dundalk & Drogheda

40%

50%

93

Chapter 6 Recommendations for Action Plan: Louth Integration Strategy 2014-2019

94

Framework on Recommendations to Action Plan It is with great pleasure to present in this final chapter, the recommendations for Louth Integration Strategy. The Integration Centre highly recommends that a minimum of 26 actions from the recommendations be included in the final action plan for the integration strategy. The set of recommendations in the document originated from the local planning process, which consist of: o 10 planning sessions held across Co Louth o The perspectives and experiences of 116 diverse participants from members of minority communities and representatives in some urban and rural areas o Semi structured interview with key service local service providers o Action planning meeting with statutory bodies and service providers in Louth As stated in the previous chapter, the main aim of using PLA-based method in the planning process, is to provide opportunity for individuals from members of minority communities to have a meaningful participation in decisions and processes that affect their lives. As such, these recommendations were proposed by participants and representatives from members of minority communities, and was later reviewed by staff of statutory bodies and service providers that attended the action planning meeting. In this regard, it is hoped that members of minority communities will take ownership of the action plan to be developed with the support of the Local Authority and other service providers. If finances and resources permit, it would be more effective to employ an individual with a minority background for a short period of time, to coordinate and implement these recommendations. Some of the recommendations in this strategy will involve the continuation of existing initiatives, while others relate to new areas that require additional support from local organisations and the communities with whom they engage. It is hoped that the following strategic aims and recommendations in this chapter, would be taken into account in finalising action plan for Louth integration strategy and in any future social inclusion and integration-related planning for members of minority communities in the county for the next five years. The grid below gives a summary of the existing positive initiatives and challenges to integration detailed earlier in Chapter 5, and the recommendations for action plan are outlined according to following themes used in categorisation and analysis during the planning process, which is as follow: o Theme 1: Education and Training o Theme 2: Employment and Finance o Theme 3: Social Inclusion (access to services, social relations and antidiscrimination) o Theme 4: Active Citizenship/ Participation

95

Theme 1: Education and Training Strategic Aims: • To increase opportunity for English language learning and progression among adults with English difficulties • To provide tailored educational courses and vocational training to ease employment difficulties in the labour market Existing Positive Initiatives to Advance in Co Louth

Integration Challenges to Address in Co Louth

 

 Insufficient English language class, tailored educational courses for adults across County Louth, particularly in rural areas  Limited access to training , and not enough tailored training and vocational skills development (particularly for Travellers and non-Irish nationals)

Multicultural schools accessible to all nationalities and religions Available free and affordable courses for adult education and skill development

ACTIONS 1.1 Increase the number or frequency of free English language classes without entry requirements, and made accessible to all ethnic minorities

1.2 Explore the need of developing, and pilot English language conversational club in target areas for ethnic minorities with English difficulties 1.3 Collaborate with local business and educational providers to provide tailored vocational and skills training opportunities for members of minority communities, that meet social and economic requirements

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

POSSIBLE ORGANISATIONS AND STRATEGIC PARTNERS

 Decrease in waiting list of English language applicants

TIMEFRAME

    English language learning is more  accessible to beginners and adults  interested in evening classes    Identified scope of interested individuals,  services & volunteers    Improved English language proficiency  for low level speakers locally 

LMETB Louth Leader Partnership Private Agencies Dundalk Institute of Technology Minority-led Organisations LCDC PPN LCDC and PPN Minority led Organisations LMETB Louth Leader Partnership Local Libraries

Exploration: Jan 2015

 Greater opportunities of targeted employment for members of minority communities

Chamber of Commerce Louth Leader Partnership LCDC and PPN Louth Co Council LMETB Louth Inclusion Forum Minority led organisations

Prep: 2015

 Building capacity of members of members of minority communities  Expanded network of partnership in the provision of skills training

      

Delivery: 2015-2017 (If resource permits) Starts: March 2015 Delivery: Ongoing as practicable

Pilot: 2015-2016 Delivery: 20172019

96

ACTIONS

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

POSSIBLE ORGANISATIONS AND STRATEGIC PARTNERS 1.4 Promote awareness of tailored education  Increased awareness on training  Minority led Organisations and training opportunities to members of opportunities, particularly in the rural  PPN members of minority communities through areas  Louth Leader Partnership effective collaborative methods  Citizens Information Centres  Higher number of registered individuals  Library services from members of minority communities for  Failte Abhaile education and training opportunities  Media outlets locally  LCDC  Louth Inclusion Forum 1.5 Encourage service providers to review  Recorded profile and figures on ethnic  Louth County Council their client enrolment policy and profile, with the minorities registered on specific or  LCDC aim of ensuring equal participation in education available education and training  PPN and training opportunities for members of programmes  Louth Inclusion Forum minority communities  Louth Minority Ethnic Consortium  Baseline record for monitoring future  Culture Connect growth in the number of individuals from members of minority communities enrolled on training and education programmes 1.6 Develop a comprehensive information  Increased awareness on information in  LCDC booklet on key service provision and support that service provision and support that is  PPN is mostly needed by minority communities and available for inclusion of minority  Service providers disseminate information in partnership with communities  Minority led organisation minority representatives  Community groups 1.7 Partner with the national qualification sector  Increased awareness among migrants on  LMETB to provide information on recognition of recognition of foreign educational and  LCDC qualifications in a more accessible way, using professional qualification  PPN local networks  Louth Leader Partnership  Improved access to recognition of  Minority led organisations foreign and professional qualifications to  CIC improve employment prospect  Community services and groups

TIMEFRAME Exploration: March 2015 Start: June 20152019

Start: 2015 Review to be done annually 20162019

Research and preparation: 2015

Start: 2015 Review to be done annually 20162019

97

Theme 2: Employment and Finance Strategic Aims:  To develop employment and job search support initiatives for members of minority communities to reduce vulnerability in job market  To encourage maximum participation of members of minority communities in business start-up schemes and explore other income opportunities Existing Positive Initiatives to Advance in Co Louth Integration Challenges to Address in Co Louth  Work placement and internship schemes are available to qualified  Non recognition of foreign qualification by employers candidates  Underemployment among members of members of minority communities  Financial support and mentorship to start own business  Job discrimination and experience of negative attitudes in employment

ACTIONS

2.1 Pilot an inter-agency work experience scheme to support members of minority communities actively seeking employment, retraining and upskilling to secure jobs in labour market

2.2 Encourage local employers and organisations to accept interested qualified members of members of minority communities for voluntary services

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

POSSIBLE ORGANISATIONS AND STRATEGIC PARTNERS  Reduced cases of job discrimination and  Louth Leader Partnership exploitation experienced by members of  Dundalk Local Employment Service minority communities during job  LCDC and PPN application  Chamber of Commerce  Minority led Organisations  Increase in employment of members  Worklink members of minority communities, including  Louth Volunteer Centre Travellers  Capacity building of members of  Louth Volunteer Centre minority communities  Louth Leader Partnership  Dundalk Local Employment Service  Improved orientation and basic  St Vincent de Paul training about the workplace environment  Other voluntary agencies locally  Chamber of Commerce  LCDC & PPN

2.3 Collaborate with minority led organisations  Greater awareness of business support to increase participation in business mentorship among members of minority communities and training programmes among members of minority communities (including Irish Travellers)  Increase in start-up business among ethnic minorities

    

Louth Enterprise Office Minority led organisations Louth Inclusion Forum Chamber of Commerce LCDC and PPN

TIMEFRAME Exploration: Jan 2016 Pilot: 2016-2018

2015 Ongoing

Preparation: 2015 Implementation: 2015-2019, if viable

98

ACTIONS

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

2.4 Organise employment information sessions,  Greater awareness on workers’ rights pre-employment training for members of minority entitlements and redress mechanisms communities to ease irregularities between these communities and employers  Increase in awareness on job opportunities and target jobs in labour market

2.5 Explore and implement other pathways to earning income through partnership with business owners and advisors locally and nationally

 Formed links with businesses owners

2.6 Organise information sessions on available pathways to accessing business support, for all members of minority communities

 Increased access to business support and resources among minority communities

 Identified other opportunities to earning income

2.7 Encourage employers and businesses to  Greater diversity practices in the embrace diversity practices and provide workplace and in hiring staff recognition to employers who have good diversity management practices in place  Improved understanding of employment barriers among minority communities and increased motivation to provide employment

POSSIBLE ORGANISATIONS AND STRATEGIC PARTNERS

TIMEFRAME

                           

Once a year 2015-2019 (if viable)

Worklink Minority led organisations LCDC &PPN Citizens Information Centre LMETB Louth Leader Partnership Dundalk Local Employment Service The Recruitment Bureau Other employment agencies Minority led organisations LCDC and PPN Louth Inclusion Forum Louth Enterprise Office Enterprise Ireland Chamber of Commerce Louth Enterprise Office Louth Leader Partnership LCDC &PPN Minority led Organisations Community groups Minority led organisations Louth Inclusion Forum Citizens Information Centre LMETB Louth Leader Partnership Chamber of Commerce PPN and LCDC Louth Enterprise Office

2016-2019

Annually: 20152019

Annually: 20152019

99

Theme 3: Social Inclusion (Access to services, anti-discrimination and social relations) Strategic Aims:  To develop local recording mechanism and responses for racist and discrimination incidents, with support for victims  To improve communication and intercultural exchange between members of minority communities and the wider community, including service providers Existing Positive Initiatives to Advance in Co Louth  Diversity events and social relation activities  Citizens Information Centre and provision of information  Access to service provision and policing  Accommodation Initiatives for Travellers  Freedom of religion and practise of faith  Available housing from Local Authority

Integration Challenges to Address in Co Louth  High cost of crèche facilities  Unavailable inclusive centre to accommodate services and event for members of minority communities  Access to services for people with disability and mental health  Unavailability of social housing in Ardee and long waiting list  Experience of racism, discrimination and negative attitudes  Restriction of dwelling place for Irish Travellers

ACTIONS

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

3.1 Explore, develop and pilot a centred mechanism for reporting and recording racist and discrimination incidents, which is linked to , and supported by Garda Síochána in Louth

 Available comprehensive data for reported racist incidents in Louth that can be liked to national figures

3.2 Write to the Chief CEO- County Manager of Louth County Council to request representation of members of minority communities in the Joint Policing Committee in Louth 3.3 Explore the provision for, and make available an intercultural centre that is available for members of minority communities as one-stop shop for services contributing toward integration

 Documented cases of racist and discrimination incidents  Support and advise for victims  Emerged representative for minority communities in the Joint Policing Committee  Improved communication on concerns regarding community safety  A sense of community and inclusion in the society  Improved support for members of minority communities  Improved coordination and information of services for members of minority communities

POSSIBLE ORGANISATIONS AND STRATEGIC PARTNERS  Minority led organisations  Louth Inclusion Forum  Garda Síochána  Louth Leader Partnership  Media outlets

TIMEFRAME

 Minority led organisations  Louth Inclusion Forum  Louth County Council

Request: 2015

 Louth County Council  Minority led organisations and Associations  Louth Inclusion Forum

Exploration:2015 Development: 2015 if viable Pilot: 2015- 2019

Ongoing representation if request accepted 2016-2019 If viable and available resources: 20152019

100

ACTIONS

POSSIBLE ORGANISATIONS AND STRATEGIC PARTNERS  Malayalee Association Ardee  Minority led Organisations  Louth Inclusion Forum  Garda Síochána

TIMEFRAME

 Access Department of Justice fund for diversity  Access Funds for diversity festival from the County Council, submission made at the beginning of the year  Improved communication between members of minority communities and local Garda 3.6 Review provision of interpretation services by  Verified need of interpretation services service providers for migrants with English language difficulties needing services  Provision /utilisation of interpretation services for ethnic minorities with English difficulties

     

2015-2019

 Minority led Organisations  Louth Inclusion Forum  Key service providers mostly used

2016-2017

3.7 Promote and ensure members of minority  Increase in trust and relations among communities are aware and, become members members of minority communities of the new formed Inclusion forum in their  Equal representation and voice of local areas, to bring forward other existing and members of minority communities in the emerging issues to integration forum

          

2014-2019

3.4 Liaise with the Garda Ethnic Liaison Officer to promote Garda outreach services among members of minority communities , particularly in Ardee

EXPECTED OUTCOMES  Utilising 24 hours Garda service locally  Improved communication between Garda and members of minority communities

3.5 Source for funding and utilise local and national funding to organise diversity and good relations events, and also invite local Garda station/Ethnic Liaison Officer to local diversity events

 Improved disability services and other needed services locally 3.8 Engage in discussion with Estate Management  Developed relations and understanding and Tenant Participation Unit of the County between house owners and members of Council about equal treatment policy of members of minority communities members of minority communities to prevent  Improved attitudes and communication discrimination during search for rent between house owners and members of accommodation members of minority communities

Malayalee Association Ardee Minority led Organisations Louth Inclusion Forum Louth County Council LMETB Louth Leader Partnership

LMETB Louth Leader Partnership Cooley Kickhams Malayalee Association Polish Parents Association Culture Connect Local Libraries IMPERO Louth County Council Minority led Organisations Louth Inclusion Forum

2015

2015-2017

101

ACTIONS

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

3.9 Establish a public inclusion forum for members of minority communities in Louth, and have sub groups in Drogheda, Carlingford, Dundalk and Ardee 3.10 Carry out profile mapping on the Roma community in Co Louth to include the group in local inclusion initiatives

Improved mobilisation and participation of members of minority communities in the wider community and on issues concerning them Documented data on Roma community in Louth and targeted services towards group

3.11 Write to the Department of Education and Skills to consider introducing a slot for minority representatives on the board of management in schools with high percentage of children with minority background 3.12 Explore effective methods of ensuring that Irish natives participate in local cultural festivals

Presence of members of minority communities on board of management in schools with high percentage of children with minority background

3.13 Identify ways of including persons with disability and trauma in local upcoming projects and possible funding, and communicate these opportunities with disability and trauma community services 3.14 Review housing policy and distribution strategy to provide more support for non-Irish nationals in dire conditions and need of accommodation, and to also reduce the long number of years on housing waiting list 3.15 Review access to recreational activities for children and young people, especially in the rural areas

 Improved services for people with disability and trauma

Improved intercultural relations and understanding between Irish natives and migrant communities

 Inclusion of disability sector in local projects  Decreased length of waiting to access housing  Improved access to social housing for nonIrish nationals  Identified opportunities to improve recreational activities, especially in Ardee  Improved access to football field in Dundalk

POSSIBLE ORGANISATIONS AND STRATEGIC PARTNERS  Minority Faiths  Community groups  Minority led organisations  LCDC and PPN  Minority led organisations  LCDC and PPN  Louth Leader Partnership

TIMEFRAME

 Minority led organisations  LCDC and PPN  Louth Leader Partnership  Community organisations Schools  Minority led organisations  LCDC and PPN  Louth Leader Partnership  Community organisations  LCDC and PPN  Louth Leader Partnership  Disability service sector

2016-2019

 LCDC  PPN  Louth County Council

2015-2017

    

2015-2016

LCDC PPN Local libraries Louth Sport Partnership Local community groups

2015-2019

2016

2015-2016

2015-2019

102

Theme 4: Active Citizenship / Participation Strategic Aims:  To improve inclusion of members of minority communities in local decision making structures, and in civic and community engagement  To promote the importance and benefit of diversity locally, through a partnership approach with key organisations and agencies Existing Positive Initiatives to Advance in Co Louth  Engagement and participation through sports  Community participation through volunteering  Inclusion of comments from members of minority communities into community safety issues in Louth  Political will among public service providers and leaders to include members of minority communities in local structures ACTIONS 4.1 Encourage and organise seminars to educate members of members of minority communities to participate in their local communities, local decision making process and voting in local politics

Integration Challenges to Address in Co Louth  Poor cross communication and social relations between members of minority communities and some service providers  Underrepresentation of members of minority communities in decision making bodies and process locally  Isolation and high fees for sports clubs

EXPECTED OUTCOMES  Participation of members of minority communities in local decision making  Improved networking opportunities developed locally  Increase in number of ethnic minorities on registered electoral vote  Building trust and relationship between the wider community and members of members of minority communities

4.2 Develop and pilot a volunteer support programmes to increase participation of members of minority communities (young, adults and newcomers) in volunteering, and encourage organisations to accept members of  Inclusion and participation of minority members of minority communities communities in their local community 4.3 Recommence an inter-agency scheme working  Greater understanding of Irish political with minority-led organisations and political system among members of minority parties to develop a short term placement communities involving members of minority communities working with TDs, Councillors and Senators, to  Build relationship and understanding promote understanding and participation of between local politicians and members of members of minority communities in local minority communities politics

POSSIBLE ORGANISATIONS AND STRATEGIC PARTNERS  Louth Inclusion Forum  Political parties  PPN  LCDC  Louth Leader Partnership  Community groups  Minority led organisations             

Louth Volunteer Centre LMETB DKIT Media Outlets PPN and LCDC Minority led organisations Political Parties Louth County Council LCDC and PPN Louth Inclusion Forum Minority led Organisations Traveller Representatives Protestant representatives

TIMEFRAME

June2018 -2019

2015-2019

Exploration:2016 Start- 2017-2019

103

ACTIONS

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

4.4 Encourage and support members of members  Wider involvement of minority of minority communities to run as candidates communities as candidates in local elections in local elections to increase representation in local politics  Emergence of leaders with minority background that can motivate and inspire young people with minority background residing locally

4.5 Collaborate with organisations to develop  Programmes for young people and diverse outdoor, educational and participatory adults that can improve active participation programmes for young people and adults and general health (including Travellers community)  Strengthen positive relations among diverse members of minority community communities, both young people and adults 4.6 Pilot 3-6months placement for members of members of minority communities to work in support positions along staff in Louth County Council

4.7 Conduct a review of action plan and integration strategy and develop a follow-on strategy if needed

 Greater understanding of service provision in the Local authority among members of minority communities  Emergence of members of minority communities in public service provision and Local Authority  Documented achievements from the implemented integration strategy  Buy-in for further progression of integration-related initiatives across

POSSIBLE ORGANISATIONS AND STRATEGIC PARTNERS                       

Simul Polonia Culture Connect LMEC Edundalk Political Parties PPN and LCDC Louth County Council Louth Leader Partnership Media Outlets Traveller Representatives Cooperation Ireland Louth Leader Partnership Chamber of Commerce Sport Against Racism Ireland Louth Inclusion Forum Migrant led Organisation Louth County Council LCDC and PPN Louth County Council Chamber of Commerce LCDC and PPN Minority led Organisations Louth Inclusion Forum

   

LCDC PPN Community groups Minority led organisations

TIMEFRAME

2017-2019

Exploration: August 2015 Pilot: Jan 2016-2019 (If resource permit)

Exploration-2016 Implementation: 20172019

End of 2019-to first quarter of 2020

104

APPENDICES 1) Members of Steering Committee Tinu Achioya Louth Minority Ethnic Consortium Yohanca Diaz Expert on social relations

Kayleigh Mulligan Louth Volunteer Centre

Joseph Ugonoh African Community

Leonard Hatrick Louth Minority Faiths

Amaka E-Dundalk

Flora Okobi Culture Connect

Imam/Sister Muslim Community

Kevin Mulgrew Failte Abhaile, Dundalk

Siyanbola Apesin Louth African Women Support Group Coordinator Connect Family Resource Centre Egis Lithuanian Community

Monika and Beata Siejka Polish Community

Sylwia Jakubas Polish Parent Association

Dr Colleta Dalikeni DKIT

Maurice McConville Louth Leader Partnership

Tosin Omiyale Integration Centre Sherry Joyce Irish Traveler Community

2) Louth Integration Strategy Invite Flyer

3) Louth Integration Strategy Registration and Consent Form

105

Registration and Consent Form Planning Process for Louth Integration Strategy 2014-2019 Date: Venue / Location:

Information generated during this process will be used to develop a long-term integration strategy for County Louth and may also be used to improve similar planning processes elsewhere. We would like to assure you that:    

Your participation is entirely voluntary You are free to engage as little or as much as you like Your are free to withdraw from the planning process at any time Your comments and input will be treated confidentially

Please fill out the registration and consent form below: Participant Name Nationality Country of Birth Community or Organisation Phone number Email address Is it okay to use photographs in which you appear? Would you like to receive a copy of the final plan by email? Would you like to be involved in the newly formed Louth Integration Forum?

Yes = 

No = X

Yes = 

No = X

Yes = 

No = X

Please sign your name: Thank you for your participation in this process to develop a five-year integration strategy for County Louth. 

This project has been supported by the PEACE III Programme, managed for the Special EU Programmes Body by Louth County Council

106

4) List of Service Providers and Statutory Bodies Represented in Louth Planning Process

Louth County Council Louth Volunteer Centre Culture Connect Connect Family Resource Centre Louth Leader Partnership LMETB St Vincent De Paul Citizens Information Centre Cooley Kickhams IMPERO Louth Minority Ethnic Consortium GAA Irish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Children Dundalk Institute of Technology Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Ireland An Garda Siochana (Co Louth) E-Dundalk Polish School Dundalk CEHG African Change Initiative Dundalk Museum Louth Library INSAKA

5) Top 15 Birthplaces of Foreign Born Population in Co Louth (Census 2011) S/N

Top Foreign Countries of Birth

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Northern Ireland England and Wales Poland Lithuania Nigeria Latvia United States China Scotland India Romania Philippines Pakistan South Africa Slovakia

Number of People 6,914 3,733 1,733 1,626 1,475 1,046 491 459 365 345 278 246 231 205 194

107

6) Template for Question 2 used for activity in Integration Planning Sessions

Louth Integration Planning Process In your experience, how easy is it for ethnic minorities to access local services?   

Date:

(5 = very easy … … 0 = not at all easy)

Base your score on the average experience of a service area (i.e. even if you know about more than one organisation within a service area) Individuals within each subgroup may choose different scores (i.e. no need to agree a consensus score) Each person in your group should place a “✓” in the relevant box (e.g. 3 people = “✓”“✓”“✓” on each row o Please use a blue marker/pen if you are representing the perspective of a community o Please use a red marker/pen if you are representing the perspective of a service provider/organisation` Service Areas

a.

Language support

b.

Education

c.

Information and Advice

d.

Health

e.

Employment

f.

Enterprise

g.

Legal Services

h.

Policing

i.

Local Authority Services

j.

Transport

k.

Community Services

l.

Family Support Services

m. Youth

108

Q.2: Access to Services

n.

Ethnic Minority Support Groups

o.

Support Service For Vulnerable Individuals

☺>>>5

4

3

2

1

0<<<☹

Don’t know

p.

Sports

Examples of Local Services Service Areas In Louth

Service Areas In Louth

Service Areas In Louth

Language Support

Employment

Community Services



Louth Meath Education and Training Board (Formerly VEC) Etc…



Department of Social Protection, Job Bridge Internship Scheme, Obair - Local Employment Service, Louth Leader Partnership, Tus Community Work Placement Initiative, Springboard Program, Employment Agencies, Etc.

Education

Enterprise





Louth Leader Partnership, Louth Meath Education and Training Board, Solas (formerly FAS), SUSI Grant Scheme, Louth Adult Learning Service Etc… Information And Advice 

Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS), Citizen Information Service, Library Service, Culture Connect Drogheda, Etc…

Health 

Legal Services 

Department Of Justice, Legal Aid, Law Firms, Court Services, Etc…

Policing GP’s, Medical Centres, Hospitals, HSE, Etc…

Transport 

Louth Chamber of Commerce, Louth Enterprise Office, Etc…

Louth Leader Partnership Rural Transport Programme, Matthews Coaches, Bus Eirean, O’Reilly Transport, Etc…





Youth 

Garda Siochana, GNIB (immigration), Etc.

Youth Work Ireland, Ardee Youth Club, Cooley Youth Club, Etc…

Louth County Council (Housing, grants, roads, tax), Library Service, Louth Leader Partnership, Etc…

 Louth Minority Ethnic Consortium Culture Connect Drogheda, Simul Polonia (Polish Community)Etc.

Support Services for Venerable Individuals 

Rehab Care, Simon Community, Turas, Dundalk Drug Taskforce, Etc…

Sport 

109

HSE Children and Family Services, Louth Child Care Services, TUSLA - Child and Family Agency, Louth Children’s Service Community, Etc.

Ethnic Minority Support Groups

Local Authority Services 

 St. Vincent De Paul Society, Louth Leader Partnership, Louth Voluntary Community Forum, Simon Community Louth Volunteer Centre, Culture Connect Drogheda, Connect Family Resource Centre Moneymore, Redeemer Family Resource Centre, Louth Leader Partnership Outreach Centres Etc. Family Support Services

All Local Sport Clubs, Louth Local Sport Partnership, GAA, DKIT Sports and Societies, Etc…

Name services that you or someone you know have used

REFERENCES

An Garda Siochana, Database on Racist Incidents in Co Louth Arts Council Ireland (2010) Cultural Diversity and the Arts: Language and Meanings Central Statistics Office (2012) Census of Population 2011 (Various Volumes). Dublin: The Stationary Office Central Statistics Office (2012) Quarterly Household National Surveys 2008-2011. Dublin: The Stationary Office Central Statistics Office (2007) Census of Population 2006. Dublin: The Stationary Office Centre for Participatory Studies (2011) PLA Training Manual. Galway, Ireland: unpublished County Louth Anti-Racism and Diversity Plan(2007) ), Full version is available at http://www.louthcoco.ie/en/Services/Library/Library-Policies/Anti-Racism-and-Diversity-Plan-for-Louth-English-version.pdf County Louth Peace III Strategy and Plan 2008-2010; [Available Online] http://www.networkforpeace.org/ County Louth VEC’s Peace III Project (2011), Building the Capacity of Ethnic Minority Groups County Louth VEC’s Peace III Project(2013) , Diverse Leaders Evaluation Project Department of Education and Skills (2011) Post-primary School Database Department of Education and Skills and the Office of the Minister for Integration (2010) Intercultural Education Strategy 2010-2015. Dublin: The Stationary Office Department of Environment, Community and Local Government (2014) All Ireland Count of Traveller Families 2013 Department of Environment, Community and Local Government (2012) Putting People First. Dublin: The Stationary Office. Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform (2005) Planning for Diversity. The National Action Plan Against Racism 2005-2008 ENAR Ireland (2014), IReport on Racist Incidents in Ireland,), [Available Online: http://www.ireport.ie/] European Commission (2010) European Ministerial Conference on Integration: Draft Declaration from Zaragoza. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union European Commission (2004) EU Common Basic Principles for Immigrant Integration. Brussels: EC European Commission (2012) Eurobarometer on Discrimination. Available at: http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/archives/ebs/ebs_393_fact_ie_en.pdf European Commission; and Migration Policy Group (2010) Handbook on Integration for Policymakers and Practitioners (third edition). Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union Louth Volunteer Centre; Database for Volunteers 2006-2013 McGinnity, F.; Quinn, E.; Kingston, G; and O’Connell, P. (2014) Annual Monitoring Report on Integration 2012 and 2013. Dublin: The Integration Centre and ESRI McGinnity, F.; Quinn, E.; O’Connell, P.; and Donnelly, N. (2011; 2012) Annual Monitoring Report on Integration 2010 and 2011. Dublin: The Integration Centre and ESRI Niessen, J. and Huddleston, T., on behalf of the European Commission (Directorate General for Justice, Freedom and Security) (2010) Handbook on Integration for Policy-makers and Practitioners (Third Edition) Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union Office of the Minister for Integration (2008) Migration Nation. Statement on Integration Strategy and Diversity Management. Dublin: The Stationary Office Penninx, R. (2010) Fostering integration. Lessons from Europe’s experience in integration policies for Ireland? Keynote lecture given at the occasion for the closing seminar of ICI’s Mentoring Programme, Dublin, June 29th, 2010. Power, J. and Szlovak, P. (2012) Migrants and The Irish Economy. Dublin: The Integration Centre The Integration Centre (2013) Recording Racism in Ireland The Integration Centre (2011-2012) TIC Policy Research Resources The Migration and Citizenship Research Initiative, UCD (2008) Getting on: From Migration to Integration – Chinese, Indian, Lithuanian and Nigerian Migrants’ Experiences in Ireland. Dublin: Immigrant Council of Ireland (ICI)

110

Photos of Planning Sessions for Louth Integration Strategy 2014 Photography: Courtesy, Maurice McConville

Photos here

111

Photos here

112

Photos here

113