Irish migration may not yet have peaked

Irish migration, reported by much of the country’s media as being at ‘famine levels’ may not yet have peaked, according to a UCC migration history expert.

A recent survey, carried out at the time of Cork and Dublin’s Working Abroad Expos, claims that many Irish workers in full-time employment would be happy to consider moving overseas to work. The depressed ambience of the country, frustration over a lack of career prospects and the dire economic situation were all reasons given for wanting to leave.

Favourite destinations include the UK, Middle East, Australia and Canada, continuing the Irish migrant tradition of choosing English-speaking countries. A new phenomenon nicknamed ‘commuter migration’ involves those taking overseas jobs whilst their families remain in Ireland, and is being sparked by cheaper air travel and the rise of the global labour market.

Many of those questioned admitted that they’d like to return to their home country one day, but doubted that it would be possible. According to migration expert Dr Irial Glynn, if Ireland’s economy improves over time, this will be reflected in a decline in emigration. However, he states, should the present downturn continue, an upsurge in the numbers leaving will certainly result.