LEICESTER, United Kingdom – The Irish bishops have called for a welcoming approach towards migrants, emphasizing the importance of defending their fundamental rights. This statement comes as the Republic of Ireland plans to adopt a firmer stance on immigration.
Earlier this year, Prime Minister Simon Harris promised a more robust immigration system in response to a wave of protests against asylum seekers that occurred nationwide.
With a population of approximately 5.2 million, Ireland currently hosts about 13,000 registered asylum seekers and over 100,000 Ukrainian refugees. Protests against immigration escalated last year, resulting in damage to buildings and vehicles.
In an interview with Sky News, Harris noted the need for Ireland to reassess its immigration policies. “We are a nation where many come seeking a better life, but we need a fair and firm system,” he stated. He acknowledged that some may try to exploit crises but emphasized the government’s responsibility to listen to and engage with communities.
In their recent letter titled “A Hundred Thousand Welcomes?”, the bishops addressed the growing challenges related to immigration, highlighting how it has brought longstanding issues, such as housing shortages and social service gaps, to the forefront. “These challenges existed before immigration became a prominent issue, but some fearful voices now call for closing borders,” they wrote.
The bishops reminded the public of Ireland’s own history with migration, shaped by events like war, famine, and economic hardship. They referenced the Great Famine (1845-1852), which resulted in nearly two million people leaving Ireland, and noted significant Irish exoduses in the 1950s and 1980s. “Now, it is a new experience for Ireland to welcome migrants, reflecting our social and economic progress,” they added.
The letter pointed out that many Irish migrants faced discrimination abroad, particularly in England, where they were often regarded as a “suspect community” due to the Troubles in Northern Ireland, which concluded with the Good Friday Agreement in 1998.
The bishops suggested that Irish citizens should remember this history as new arrivals seek better lives in Ireland. They acknowledged the role of local parishes, schools, and community organizations in integrating immigrants. “The Catholic Church in Ireland has become a space where established communities meet newcomers, fostering diversity—a gift that revitalizes society,” they stated.
The bishops urged the promotion of a “culture of encounter,” which goes beyond mere tolerance. They argued that genuine interaction leads to mutual enrichment for both established communities and newcomers. “True Christian encounter involves sharing and learning from one another,” they said, reinforcing the dignity and inalienable rights of every person, including migrants.
The letter noted that immigration to Ireland is currently high. In the most recent year with available statistics, 149,200 people moved to Ireland, while 69,900 departed. This figure includes a diverse mix of returning Irish citizens, individuals on employment visas, EU citizens, and UK citizens who benefit from the Common Travel Area.
According to the European Union, 1,485 individuals were found to be residing in Ireland illegally in 2023. The bishops highlighted that the terms “immigrant” and “migrant” are often misused, complicating discussions on the topic. “Regardless of where a person was born or what passport they hold, they are our neighbor,” they emphasized.
While many express concerns about the costs of immigration, the bishops pointed out that nearly one in five workers in the Irish economy are non-Irish nationals. “Our economy relies heavily on workers in hospitality, education, healthcare, and technology,” they noted.
Despite facing challenges like homelessness, strained health services, and a struggling education system, the bishops asserted that these issues are not caused by migration. “Migrants can help address these needs and contribute positively to society. Our immigration policies should serve the common good, benefiting both migrants and citizens,” they concluded.
The bishops acknowledged that increasing migration brings both challenges and opportunities. “The teachings of the Gospel offer timeless guidance as we navigate these realities,” they stated.
They called for ongoing advocacy for migrants, urging all to participate in the national conversation. “By welcoming migrants, we honor our shared identity as a ‘migrant pilgrim people,’ reflecting the Irish tradition of openness and hospitality, and demonstrating God’s eternal love,” the bishops concluded.
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