So far 10 non-nationals are standing in the local elections on June 11th. Five are running as Independents, with four for the Green Party and one for the Labour Party. Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin are so far not fielding any candidates from outside the State.
Mr José Ospina, from Colombia and Britain, is standing for the Labour Party in Skibbereen, Co Cork. A development consultant, he is active in the Carberry Housing Association and on recycling issues. Mr Ospina began working in housing in 1973 with the Bristol Self-Help Housing Association.
Ms Benedicta Attoh from Nigeria is standing as an Independent in Dundalk. She stresses she is standing to represent all in her community. She said she had no desire to join any of the mainstream parties as they did not adequately address issues of concern to her.
Ms Tokie Laotan from Nigeria is standing as an Independent in Galway. The community worker, former model and mother of three received hate mail recently telling her to leave the country. She said the mail had made her more determined than ever to stand.
Dr Taiwo Matthew from Nigeria is standing as an Independent in Ennis, Co Clare. The medical doctor has lived in Ennis for five years and was granted Irish citizenship three years ago.
He is a married father of three and is completing postgraduate studies at the Royal College of Surgeons. He wants to build a bridge between Ennis people and some of the town's recent arrivals. "I also want to make a strong case for people with disabilities and help integrate them into society," he said.
Pastor Paul Osikoya, also from Nigeria, is running as an Independent in Galway. He has lived there for five years. A qualified accountant, he is an assistant pastor at the United Presbyterian and Methodist Church in Galway city.
Mr Ali Selim, from Egypt, is expected to run as an Independent for Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. A Muslim, he is involved in education at the Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland in Clonskeagh, Dublin. He is also involved in promoting inter-faith dialogue and education.
Mr Parvez Butt, from South America, is standing for Longford County Council for the Green Party.
Ms Lucille Ryan-O'Shea, from the US, will stand for Mayo County Council for the Green Party.
Mr Eamon Ansboro, from Britain, is standing in Co Roscommon for the Green Party. A businessman, he has more than 30 years' experience in science and engineering, including astronomy, meteorology and industrial optics.
Mr Michael Cuthbert, from Britain, will stand for the Green Party in Enniscorthy for Wexford County Council. He will campaign for community-based health services, recycling, planning for people, planning for the environment, support for local business, quality public transport and high-quality, locally produced food.
KITTY HOLLAND