A recent survey revealed that around 64 per cent of people believe that Ireland should welcome individuals who move to the country in search of a better life for themselves or their families. However, 18 per cent of those surveyed disagree with this stance.
The survey, conducted by Ireland Thinks for the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland, included responses from 1,465 participants.
It explored public opinion on how the government should handle undocumented migrant workers. While 25 per cent of respondents believe these workers should be required to leave the country immediately, a significant majority of 69 per cent think they should be given the opportunity to legalise their status if they can prove they have been living and working in Ireland long term.
There is strong support for allowing Irish companies to recruit workers from outside the EU to fill skills or labor shortages. A substantial 82 per cent of respondents agree that this practice should continue, highlighting the importance of foreign talent in addressing gaps in the Irish labor market.
On the topic of family reunification, 65 per cent of those surveyed support allowing people recruited through the work permit system to bring their immediate family members, such as spouses and children, to Ireland. In contrast, 24 per cent disagree with this policy.
The survey also revealed that two-thirds of respondents support giving non-EU workers on work permits the freedom to change jobs after two years. Additionally, 88% of respondents believe that the current annual residence permit card fee of €300 should be reduced to less than €100, considering this lower amount fair and reasonable.