Chinese isolated in Ireland, says study

There is evidence of racial discrimination against Chinese people in Ireland while in general the Chinese community remains isolated from mainstream Irish society, a report published yesterday finds.

The report, by the National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism, is based on nearly two dozen interviews.

It suggests there are between 60,000 and 100,000 Chinese people living here. Many do not mix greatly with Irish people and effectively live in a parallel community, it says.

Some interviewees say they have suffered discrimination. "Many of those interviewed pointed out that some teenagers here are troublemakers. Some thought that older Irish people are sometimes very rude to Chinese people or other foreigners. Others thought that older Irish people were really nice."

Interviewees living here for four or five years say Irish people have changed their attitude towards Chinese people and other migrants, and are not as friendly as they used to be.

The study, which pinpoints a greater need for intercultural dialogue, suggests free or low-cost English language night courses be provided in community settings.

Getting visas is considered the biggest problem. "One suggestion would be to allow those who have studied here for over three years and have completed a third-level degree to remain on a professional work visa or to gain work experience and contribute to the Irish economy," the report says.