Returned emigrants’ access to Irish welfare in focus for Social Protection Committee

The Crosscare Migrant Project in May published “A Hundred Thousand Welcomes? Habitual residence and access to social welfare for returned Irish emigrants.” The 44-page report documented examples of Irish citizens being refused support following their return to Ireland and cited alleged inconsistencies in decision-making as a particular problem.

Thursday’s scheduled witnesses appearing in Committee Room 4 after 10:30 a.m. are:

• Policy Officer Danielle McLaughlin, Project Manager Richard King and Information & Advocacy Officer Judy McAvoy of the Crosscare Migrant Project.

“The question of access to social welfare supports for returning emigrants became a major point of concern during the years of the Celtic Tiger boom and has gained renewed prominence as Ireland once again experiences strong net inward migration,” said Committee Chairman John Curran TD. “Crosscare’s detailed exploration of the issue merits careful scrutiny.”

The meeting can be viewed live here.

It also can be viewed live on Android and Apple devices using the Houses of the Oireachtas app.