The lack of knowledge of the Irish labour market and recruitment processes, non-recognition of prior work experience and/or qualifications, and limited English language skills pose a significant challenge to finding work often, which is compounded by the experience of ‘institutionalisation’ under the Direct Provision system. The situation for women is further exacerbated due to the lack of sufficient childcare supports.
The Irish Refugee Council has consistently advocated for people seeking protection to be allowed to work. In May 2017 the Supreme Court of Ireland declared that the Irish government’s decision to ban indefinitely people from working was unconstitutional. In January 2021 the time a person must wait to apply for permission to work was reduced from nine months to six months.
Our dedicated Employment team work on a number of initiatives assisting people seeking protection in Ireland to overcome barriers to access employment, including our Women's Employment Programme and our Business and Entrepreneur Incubator Project, read more below.
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Providing women with pre-employment training, one-to-one mentoring and supported work experience Read more
Supporting people in establishing businesses through training, support, resources and development Read more
An analysis of peoples experience trying to access employment after the Direct Provision system Read more