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UG researchers highlight challenges facing migrant integration in rural areas

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UG researchers highlight challenges facing migrant integration in rural areas

Researchers at University of Galway have highlighted the key challenges facing the integration of migrants into rural areas.

They found that most research tends to look at urban areas - even though Ireland has a particularly high level of rural migration.

The study looked at 31 different nationalities, who are living in rural areas across 11 counties, including Galway.

Unsurprising, Ukrainians were a consistent cohert - and their experiences of the challenges they faced are a core part of the findings.

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They're too complex and numerous to mention, but there are a few key findings.

First, English classes are seen as crucial to supporting social inclusion and building connections with local communities - but there aren't always enough of them.

Limited employment opportunities are cited as another barrier, and learning English is seen as a gateway into a job and better inclusion.

And mothers with small children reported having a hard time accessing language classes, even when they were available.

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Limited access to services and infrastructure in rural areas also remains a significant barrier - like public transport and translation and interpreting services.

Almost everyone said they never had negative reactions from locals when speaking their own language, and felt safe and included.

And children were one of the most important factors of all - with many saying that as long as their kids were happy, they were happy.

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