In lists released for 2011 and published by Central Statistics Office, it’s proven that Poles are the biggest ethnic minority in Republic of Ireland. There are more Polish born than there are British, and Polish is the second language used in Ireland.
Poland’s access to the European Union opened borders up, and Poles in large numbers started going abroad for work, with a majority going to the British Isles. Many Poles decided to leave their jobs in Poland in search of better earnings abroad, and working in Ireland proved very beneficial. So much that Poles became their biggest ethnic minority.
During the years 2002-2011, figures of Poles in Ireland sky-rocketed. In 2002 there were 2,124 Polish people in Ireland, In 2006 numbers had increased to 63,276, and in 2011 there were 122,585 settled Poles in the Republic of Ireland. Poles had now overtaken the Brits of 112,259 people, and whose ethnic minority was the biggest until now. ”The past decade Ireland became very open in terms of social acceptance to different nationalities, which now have more influence, both economical and societal” – said Deirdre Cullen from Central Statistics Office.
Polish is the second most popular language in Ireland. Native Irish, which is used every day by 82 600 people (1,8 percent of population) is on third place.
What did this country have, that Poles loved and made them so eager to go to ? Ireland is a traditional country for emigration and is under rapid economic development, which makes it an attractive country for learning and settled migrants. Compared to Poland, working in Ireland enables you to save large capitals of money in short time. In addition, there are not often manifestations of intolerance. Ireland is a relatively safe country, and people live relaxed lives without stress. Citizens of Ireland are very open and friendly, and this brings an eagerness to make acquaintances and a curiousity over foreign conventions and habits.
Full report is based on results from General List 2011, which you can find more about here – http://www.cso.ie/