Foreign Affairs Committee to discuss the problems and barriers facing those returning to live in Ireland

The meeting will take place in Committee Room 2 of Leinster House between 15:15-18:00. 

The following representatives are due to appear before the Committee: 

• Richard King, Sarah Owen, Niall Foster - Crosscare

• Aileen Leonard Dibra, Ciaran Staunton, Celine Kennelly- Coalition of Irish Immigration Centers

Crosscare Migrant Project is funded by Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and provides an information and advocacy service that supports Irish citizens who are leaving and returning to Ireland. 

The Coalition of Irish Immigration Centers was established in 1996 to promote the welfare of Irish immigrants and serve as the umbrella organisation for Irish immigration centres throughout the United States.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Charlie Flanagan said: “We welcome the opportunity to hear from representatives from Crosscare and the Coalition of Irish Immigration Centers."

“According to the latest figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) there has been a steady increase in Irish people returning to Ireland with more than 30,000 returning last year.”

“Returning emigrants bring a wealth of experience and can make a significant contribution to their community but it is clear that we can do more to support them.”

“The cost of car insurance, high rents, employment, housing, access to social welfare and opening a bank account are among the issues and obstacles returning emigrants face.”

Watch the meeting live here and on the Oireachtas smartphone app for Apple and Android.