EXPLOITATIVE WORKING conditions, a lack of information on entitlements and having to take jobs below their qualification levels were some of the complaints raised by immigrants in a new report on integration in Co Meath.
It found that while Polish migrants were often well informed of their rights and responsibilities, other communities were more vulnerable.
The report said many respondents mentioned "that they were over-qualified for the jobs they currently held.
"Some complained vociferously about harsh employment conditions they or their friends had experienced, particularly in the hospitality and mushroom production sectors."
It continued: "Working conditions of an exploitative character were described - although many had secured positive outcomes through social networks or agency support."
Published by Meath Citizens Information Service and Meath County Development Board, the report used eight focus groups comprising 48 individuals, as well as interviews with ethnic chaplaincies and service providers, to assess the attitudes of immigrants across a range of subjects.
According to the 2006 census, 9.2 per cent of Meath's population was non-Irish.
The county is the second fastest-growing in Leinster, with an increase of 21 per cent in population between 2002 and 2006.
On education, the report found concerns about the recognition of foreign qualifications and access to English-language training.
Many respondents said they worked very long hours and it was difficult to find English language courses at times and venues that suited them. "Several mentioned cost factors and the associated difficulties of being able to practise English when interaction with native speakers could be socially restricted or limited."
Asked about the health service, those who had encountered hospital services spoke in generally positive terms, with services found to be effective and of good quality.
There was confusion, however, about the role and function of the general practitioner, with many eastern Europeans feeling the role to be unnecessary.
Throughout the research, a lack of information was highlighted as a critical issue.
"Unfamiliarity with the policies, procedures and structures of Irish life is a common characteristic of many immigrant groups," the report states.
The report stressed, however, that immigrants indicated many examples of good practice. Many were talking of experiences in the past and, "as they had become more adept at language and knowledge of systems and structures, they had developed the ability to challenge, advocate and remedy".
It concluded that Meath could become a "beacon of best practice" in welcoming and engaging migrant communities, but this would take "substantial resources in terms of personnel, knowledge, skill and imagination".
