In an article published in the Irish Times on Monday, 9th
July, the ICI released a report where it mentioned concerns specifically
regarding migrant children. One in seven children in Ireland is an immigrant,
and the needs of this growing group must be addressed. The stigma on this group
could have a detrimental effect on their emotional, social, and cultural
well-being.
Many of these children have grown up in Ireland, and have
rooted themselves well in Irish society, speaking fluent English, receiving
high marks in school, and establishing a wide network of friends and peers.
They are required, at the age of sixteen, to obtain a GNIB identification card,
clearly establishing them as different from their peers, and costing up to
€150. This card must be presented whenever requested, and often prevents
students from acquiring after school employment or participating in extra
curricular activities.
Not only does the GNIB identification card cost €150, but if
a migrant student has not been naturalised to become an Irish citizen by the
time she is ready to go to college, she faces the risk of being charged
international student fees. These costs are exorbitant and often well outside
of the means of immigrant families.
The article stresses how disruptive and upsetting these
bureaucratic measures can be on a young migrant, and calls for reform as
soon as possible. Not only does the ICI call for a closer look at the tuition
fee structure and the immigration laws in general, but the Council believes
that preventing racism, xenophobia, and negative social stigmas is crucial to
assisting migrant children’s full integration into Ireland.
Brophy Solicitors
11.07.12
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