Polish Community in Ireland Four Years After Poland’s Accession to the European Union

Abstract

Ireland is one of the countries that after extending the European Union in 2004 opened the labor market for the citizens of the new member states, one of them being Poland. Soon Ireland became a very popular country for Poles’ gainful travels – it is estimated that after four years their number on the Green Island is about 200-250 thousand. A majority of them declares satisfaction with their life in emigration, often assuming that they will remain there for long or even forever.

Poles are present in all the sectors of Irish economy but their presence can also be noticed in other fields than their work. White-and-red colors and various Polish events have become part of the Irish landscape for good. Polish organizations, associations, media and companies are established; Polish pastorates and Polish schools are developed; festivals, concerts, exhibitions and sports events are organized. Also many other initiatives take place that positively influence the Poles’ image on the Island as well as prove mutual interest between Poles and Irishmen. This is due to the fact that Irishmen gave a warm welcome to newcomers from other countries, including Poland; they have shown a lot of understanding and they spare no effort to make their life outside their own country easier and to deepen the process of integration. Although single cases of discrimination, of breaking the workers’ rights or unpleasant incidents in which Poles participate do happen, the presence of Poles in Ireland is appreciated by their hosts.