Yolanda Sanchez can normally be found dishing up teas and coffees or manning tills in Bewleys on Dublin's Westmoreland Street. Just two years ago, working as a waitress in her hometown of Santander, Spain, the 28-year-old had no idea she would wind up living here.

Her association began when an Irish student showed up looking for waitressing work. The two became friends and when Bernie headed home to a college course, Yolanda decided to come along. "I didn't speak a word of English, it was pure madness but I decided to go anyway.

"I planned to start an English course and get some sort of job, but quickly realised that I would need to work full time if I was going to make enough money to support myself."

She was taken on by Bewleys and served her time clearing tables until she picked up enough of the language to interact with the public. A year and a half later and she has amassed an ample vocabulary that will open many doors back home. The problem is Ms Sanchez is no longer sure whether she wants to return.

"I've been here nearly two years and I love this country. . . If I go back I will be leaving a lot behind. At the same time I desperately miss my family. I've given myself one more year to decide whether I want to settle in Ireland or return to Spain."