Migrants tell of exploitation and language difficulties in workplace
Language difficulties and exploitation in the workplace are among the main problems affecting Polish migrants to Ireland, a new report revealed today.
The study found many newcomers were unable to defend their rights in the workplace due to problems with the English language.
The National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism (NCCRI) called for more to be done to provide language tuition and interpreting services for all migrant workers.
Philip Watt, director of the NCCRI, said: “Providing the official information both before and after arriving in Ireland on rights and entitlements is key to raising awareness and self-confidence among migrants. There is also a particular need for information on employment rights and on how to seek redress when employers do not meet their obligations.”
The research ’Polish Migrant Workers in Ireland’, which is the first in a series of reports from the NCCRI, explored the problems facing immigrant communities.
Report author Katarzyna Kropiwiec found in all of the interviews English skills were identified as crucial for finding a job, integrating and getting along well in Ireland.
The report stated: “For many working in the low-wage sector, the price of private language tuition is too high. Free or low-cost, evening, English language classes for migrant workers are much needed combining teaching the language with extended emphasis on oral English and using employment related content, Polish-English conversation and classes showing the similarities and differences in culture through both languages.”
There were also questions raised that some employers were paying less than the minimum wage. The report said some migrants stated they were fearful of losing their jobs if they complained leaving them unable to defend their rights when faced with discrimination, exploitation, under-payment and poor working conditions.
Mr Watt said the research found the provision of adequate and appropriate information for individuals before they leave Poland was essential to ensure they adapt to their new community.
The report found there was a major need for information and awareness on the demands of the Irish job market, how to prepare for employment, to make people aware of the high cost of living in Ireland and the time required for finding their first job before they arrive.
The committee had the research conducted in the migrants’ native language in partnership with a Polish researcher to ensure they gave a true account of their concerns about life in Ireland.
The study found racism, particularly negative stereotyping, were major issues for them. The migrants interviewed reported often experiencing a lack of general knowledge about Poland and its history among Irish people.
Mr Watt said the report aimed to inform both government and the general public of some of the key difficulties faced by Polish migrant workers in Ireland.
