The Government's policies on integration and cultural diversity are a largely reactive and at times unworkable "mix of contradictions", according to a new report.
The European Intercultural Workplace Project, which compared experiences and practices in 10 countries, found that despite some positive ideas on integration, the Government had shown a lack of foresight in the area.
This, coupled with the speed and extent of recent demographic changes, has meant that "policies and strategies introduced at a Government level have been largely reactive and at times poorly planned".
"There are inconsistencies across policies, in particular a failure to view immigrant workers as culturally shaped individuals rather than labour units," the report said.
This has led to a lack of co-ordination across agencies, and to the creation of legislative and administrative barriers in some sectors that "hamper efforts towards personal betterment and hinder integration and acceptance within broader Irish society".
The authors praised initiatives such as the National Action Plan Against Racism, the Department of Education's guidelines on intercultural education and the establishment of the National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism.
However, the report offered as a caveat "the need for significant financial support and resources" to implement well-devised plans correctly. "Securing this funding is a major issue," it added.
Dr Aileen Pearson-Evans, the project director at Dublin City University, described as "a mess" the Government's immigration policies to date. "I know there's lack of time, and it's impossible to get everything right and to cover every angle, but I think time is running out now for that excuse."
The report also criticised the State's previous work permit system, which "gave rise to cases of exploitation", but praised the appointment of a Minister of State for Integration and the enacting of equality laws.
Despite their misgivings, the authors found "genuine enthusiasm" for Ireland's cultural diversity, citing initiatives by schools, business and community groups.
