A new handbook outlining immigrants rights and entitlements in Ireland has been launched today by the Immigrant Council of Ireland (ICI).
The handbook - considered to be the first publication of its type focused on the needs of immigrants - provides up-to-date, practical information on all aspects of law, policy and practice relating to immigration in Ireland, and the rights and entitlements of different categories of immigrants living in Ireland.
Key topics include residency, entry visas, work permits, business permission, student visas, family reunification, citizenship, social welfare, health care, education, accommodation, and employment.
Since the ICI's formal opening four months ago the agency has seen a rise of over 140 per cent in calls for help and it has helped people from over 69 countries with their rights and entitlements.
Speaking at the launch of the handbook, Sr Stanislaus Kennedy, chairperson of the ICI, said: "It's vital for their protection that immigrants arriving in Ireland are fully aware of their rights and entitlements".
"It's impossible for most of us to imagine what it must be like to come to work and live in this country with a poor knowledge of English, no family or community support, no information on rights, responsibilities or entitlements and no knowledge on how to access this information, she added.
Also speaking at the launch of the handbook, the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Ms Mary Coughlan, said: "This is the right time for this book. It is a step towards the development of a common and shared understanding and approach towards the needs of immigrants coming to Ireland and as such is very welcome".
The Immigration Council of Ireland is the national agency working for the rights and entitlements of all immigrants, mostly migrants workers, through information, legal aid and advocacy. It does not include asylum seekers.
It was established by Sr Stanislaus Kennedy in 2001 to identify new and emerging social needs in Ireland and to create appropriate and innovative responses to these needs.