The Government must provide English language classes if new migrants are to be tested on English competency as a requirement for citizenship, the Immigrant Council of Ireland (ICI) has said
Speaking at the publication of research into immigrant issues this morning, council board chairman John Cunningham said there were too few opportunities for new migrants to learn English or more about Irish society.
"If, as it has been suggested, the Government were to make competency in English a requirement for long-term residency or citizenship, it has an obligation to ensure there are enough courses available to allow migrants with limited language skills the opportunity to learn," he said.
While Minster for Integration Conor Lenihan has strongly suggested residency or citizenship would be based on language skills, at present there is no standard assistance for migrants.
The council said the Government should establish a central agency to tender out course provision so that a wide range of needs can be met - from courses for people with little or no English through to introductory courses for those who would benefit from learning more about Irish society.
Types of course recommended include English grammar, vocabulary and practical use, literacy and information on employment rights.
The research examined what was offered to new migrants in Europe, North America and Australasia, drawing on what has been proven to work and less effective.
"Investment in a well-thought out programme of introductory and English language courses will not just give us a return in terms of social cohesion and harmony but will also provide real economic benefits," said ICI chief executive Denise Charlton.