Back on home soil
Since quantifiable records began in the 1700s, between approximately nine and 10 million Irish people have emigrated from Ireland. But much as they have settled abroad, many have come home too, as the Irish employment market grows. If you are an Irish cit
Between November 2016 to January 2017, a survey based on Irish emigration was conducted by Crosscare Migrant Project, a non-profit organisation which supports both Irish moving abroad and returning home from abroad. Targeting Irish emigrants who had returned in the two years prior and with 400 respondents, the survey found the majority of respondents (41pc) returned after 3-5 years of living abroad. Those who returned after 6-10 years were the second highest group, followed by those who were away for over 10 years.
“Over half of the respondents plan to stay permanently in Ireland, which correlates with the high response rate of emotive reasons such as wanting to be close to family and support networks,” says Sarah Owen, Irish Abroad Networking Officer, Crosscare Migrant Project.
122 respondents referenced finding employment as a challenge. However, in January 2017, the monthly unemployment figure was down to 7.1pc from 8.5pc in January 2016, the lowest since 2008. Employment is up by an average 10.6pc across the country and the Action Plan for Jobs 2017 has a target to create 200,000 net additional jobs by 2020. So, how can you make the search easier?
Firstly, make sure you have references from your overseas employers. If you didn’t pack this with you when you were travelling, there’s still time to contact your employer before Christmas and get a reference e-mailed across.
“There are a range of websites that will help you in your job search, such as LinkedIn, recruitment websites and company websites,” says Owen. “There’s also more information on the Department of Foreign Affairs’ global Irish website.
“This may seem obvious, but speak to people in the sector that you’re interested in for more information on the kind of work they do. They may be able to link you in with a relevant contact and it’s a good opportunity to network too!
“If you studied abroad, it’s important to check that your foreign qualification is recognised in Ireland. NARIC Ireland can provide information on this online. If your qualification is not recognised, you may need to consider upskilling on return. Similarly, if you studied in Ireland but feel you might benefit from more up-to-date training, you’ll find information on further education and training from the website of the Education and Training Board Ireland.”
Owen adds that if you are unemployed on your return to Ireland, you may be eligible for a social welfare payment while you seek work. For more information about the supports available, visit the Citizen’s Information Board website.
Depending on how long you have been gone, you’ll have to prove that you have made Ireland your home again through the Habitual Residence Condition (HRC). Factors considered include: - the nature and pattern of your employment;
- the length and continuity of residence in any other country;
- your main centre of interest, based on facts such as whether you own or lease a house in Ireland and where close family members live;
- the length and purpose of any absence from Ireland;
- and your future intention to live in the Republic of Ireland as it appears from all circumstances
Make sure to supply supporting documentation with your application, such as your one-way ticket, shipping or excess bagging receipts and proof of closing banking accounts abroad.
Owen says: “The support we offer returning emigrants is focused in two areas: Information provision and advocacy support. As a recipient of Emigrant Support Programme funding, our service is focused mainly on supporting Irish emigrants in situations of vulnerability – for instance, people returning to Ireland in crisis. For more information and assistance with securing employment in Ireland, look to statutory and other job seeking groups that are well established in this area.
“It’s important to be prepared for the emotional impact moving back home may have and allow time for yourself to readjust and settle back into the way of life in Ireland. Have a prepared mindset, keep positive and have specific goals.”