Year: 2008
Module: Minority Ethnic Groups
Variable: MEGELSE
Below are the responses
to the open-ended question:
'Is there anything esle
you would like to say about migrant workers and minority ethnic groups
in Northern Ireland?'
Note: Responses were
only edited for grammatical reasons, if necessary. Square brackets
indicate where editing occurred.
- A lot are
unfairly taken advantage of by employers which wouldn't happen
to locals, so that's unfair.
- Although
especially now during recession, local accuse migrant works
of 'stealing our jobs'. They are in reality doing the jobs we
don't want to do e.g. cleaning, catering, etc. We should be
grateful for the supply of their labour.
- Although
I said I agree that ethnic groups are taking local jobs, which
is unfair. Some people would argue that they do the stupid jobs
none else wants, but personally if people from this country
can't get a job and are in debt they should have first pick
at which job they want. If the other ethnic groups need a job
so bad why can't they get one were they're from as a cleaner
etc.
- Although
they do take a lot of jobs they do not take the jobs that many
people would be prepared to do e.g selling newspapers by the
side of a road.
- Although
they do take up many jobs, they work hard for their money and
do the jobs the many northern Irish people would be unwilling
to do, so I don't have a problem.
- Any immigrant
coming into another country should integrate themselves into
that culture and leave their own behind.
- As I have
previously stated, prejudice to due to the minority of narrow
minded people who are reluctant to allow change within society.
With regards to immigrants and ethnic minorities, I feel that
they have as much right to be have as anyone else, if not more
so. Many migrants have come from poverty stricken wav zones
and have came to Northern Ireland in a bid to seek shelter,
solitude and even a decent ways. It is morally worry and unjust
to despite these people of their necessities.
- As long
as they abide by our laws. What harm are they doing? They are
spending money in our economy which is needed at the moment.
If they however, break our laws I believe they should loose
the right to live here.
- As long
as they are legal there shouldn't be a problem but jobs, I think,
should be given to local people first.
- As long
as they respect our Culture & try to speak English. I don't
mind. In all fairness, you never see a 'Migrant' on the BN.
- Because
migrant workers move to NI, they often bring family with them.
If this includes children then they have to be educated. In
my experience most migrants don't speak very good English so
when the migrant children go to school they struggle a lot because
they don't know enough English. This can be very hard and annoying
for teachers and pupils.
- Despite
the fact that local jobs are taken by other groups as stated
in part 'b' I think that if they benefit the economy and do
a good job working hard then it isn't a problem.
- Discrimination
of any sort is wrong. Migrant workers are here for a better
life they have a right to that. Minority ethnic groups also
come for a better life they have a right to that. After our
past we should be glad people from different ethnic groups -
we should not scare them off.
- Do the
jobs that no locals want to do for the pay.
- Don't know
[2 respondents]
- Every man
& women has the right to live free from fear, intimidation.
They have the right to live and work where they want and to
practise their own religion. However, people from minority ethnic
groups have to keep the law, not be sex attackers.
- Every one
needs a job to get money to live on and feed their families
so fair play to them.
- Everyone
has the right to come to live here but people are unwilling
to let other ethnic backgrounds live here due to things they
see on TV, like terrorists etc.
- Everyone
is equal and skin colour or different beliefs does not make
you different.
- Everyone
says that the crime rates has increased due to the amount of
migrant workers and minority ethnic groups in Northern Ireland.
- Everyone
should have an equal chance in life.
- Fair enough
for them to come to N.Ireland to work & have a better life
it is a huge beneficial change from what they used to live in
or as. Personally I hope the poverty in Africa is quickly resolved.
All live here.
- Fair play
to them as they also do jobs we don't want to do e.g. cleaning
jobs or 'dirty' jobs. Then again at my part time job at McDonalds
I feel I'm a minority in the staff room become 90% of people
aren't speaking English.
- For migrant
workers I am only able to say that although it is right for
people to be able to get jobs, it can be considered unfair by
people if they think that they are being considered second because
they are not migrant workers when it comes to job applications,
promotion or job layoffs.
- Generally
jobs taken by migrant are one's other don't want and there are
enough jobs people just use migrant worker as an excuse.
- Get paid
less therefore we loose jobs to them as businesses hire them
instead meaning we have less jobs to employ Northern Irish people.
- Get them
out
- Gives them
a better chance in life due to the difference, in pay and I
think that threatens a lot of people who are unemployed or not
well off.
- Go Home!!!!
- Have a
good time.
- Having
worked with migrant workers I have come to understand that job
because they came from a different country/religion does not
make them in crying [??] a bad person and it is unfair to stereotype
because of these factors.
- I agree
with ethnic workers coming to work in the UK as it boosts the
economic and the company they are working for.
- I am 16
years old, I'm nearly 17 and I have been trying for the past
year for a part time weekend job and still can't get one.
- I am not
at all racist, but in my opinion, a lot of immigrant works come
over here and completely disrespect our re[li]gions and background
by blatantly disregarding social rules we have. For example
if a Hindu child goes to school and wears their religious garments
instead of school uniform and get away with it, this is wrong.
When they are in our country they should follow Northern Irish
rule. No Northern Irish person would go to a foreign country
and wear inappropriate clothes if they were told to cover up,
so why should immigrants get away with it over here.
- I am not
bothered by different ethnic groups but it isn't fair that they
come over and take the locals jobs.
- I am not
that aware of this problem/situation
- I believe
if they have the right qualifications and right experience they
are entitled to be offered the job. I believe they all have
the right to live in Northern Ireland if they don't annoy anyone
and stick on the right side of the law.
- I believe
it allows people to make friends from different backgrounds,
which I think is important and interesting.
- I believe
migrant workers have just as much rights to live and work here
as any person born in the UK.
- I believe
sometimes that foreign workers aren't treated as a citizen of
our country but as an outlaw that are not welcome.
- I believe
that people who scapegoat migrants for 'taking jobs' are perhaps
covering their own folk of work ethic or skills, on the other
hand, I think that anyone wishing to live/work in Northern Ireland
should be competent English speakers who are willing to mix
with the indigenous population.
- I believe
that some of the migrant workers and minority ethnic groupes
are very disrespect[full] towards people here as they know they
can get away with it. I also feel harassed and intimidated when
I can't even walk down the street in my local town without someone
trying to bombard me with the 'big issue' when they clearly
don't need the money and nothing is done to stop them from doing
this.
- I believe
the situation should be turned around - instead of complaining
about the situation in NI, i.e. foreigners coming here for help
and to get jobs. Why can't people from NI go to the countries,
give help, and people don't have to leave. Simply this simple
and everyone wins.
- I believe
they form an important part of our economy, and by working here,
they contribute to providing essential public services. Many
native people would not want to work in many of the jobs occupied
by migrant workers.
- I can see
no problems with letting other ethnic groups into Northern Ireland
as their standard of living is poor in many cases and I believe
they should be allowed a chance.
- I come
from an area of N.I that was recently classified as an area
with a high rate of un-employments. I feel that many of the
jobs in the primary and secondary sector have been filled by
migrant workers, which is not fair on locals. I would like to
see programmes set up within communities to help minority ethnic
groups interact more with the locals of their area and this
would in turn tackle any problems of segration.
- I do feel
quite negative towards ethnic people as sometimes it is noticeable
not many of our jobs they take.
- I do not
wish to comment.
- I don't
believe that migrant workers are treated very well after seeing
people in my job abused by their bosses.
- I don't
have a problem with it at all.
- I don't
have a problem with migrant workers there is just maybe too
many. old their [?] not enough part time jobs for young people.
- I don't
have a problem with them. Although when I worked in a coffee
shop last year with someone who was Spanish and someone who
was German, at times it was [hard] to communicate and work well,
but that was only on a part time basis.
- I don't
have anything against foreign people but am finding if hard
to get a job as they don't need anyone and they mostly have
all foreign workers.
- I don't
have anything against other ethnic groups, as we are all human.
It shouldn't matter what colour your skin is, or what your religion
is, we are all human beings and are equal. If people want to
come to the UK for a better life for their families then that's
fair enough - although it does mean there is less jobs available
for the British public.
- I don't
have problems with it, I think new people with different backgrounds
are good for anyone's country. I don't agree with racists and
I am not racist. Just because you were born somewhere different
or brought up somewhere different to yourself doesn't make you
any different from anyone else.
- I don't
mind them coming to Northern Ireland as long as they work and
don't take benefits off our government and also they have to
pay tax like everyone else.
- I don't
mind workers form different countries because my dad has told
me they are very good workers and deserve to be here
- I don't
really have that much contact with them but I don't have a problem
with them. The jobs they do over in Northern Ireland most people
that have lived here all of their lives won't do, so why not?
- I don't
think it is fair the way that migrants are taking all our jobs
over here.
- I don't
think that they should be treated any differently than the rest
of us. Some people resent them for taking jobs but who would
they rather have as their doctor (for example); someone well
suited to the job but from on ethnic minority or a person from
N.I who isn't as well qualified? People from ethnic minority
may also have more experience in certain situations.
- I don't
think they take our jobs, they've willing to do the jobs no
one else will do.
- I don't
understand why they want to come and work away from family when
more of them are getting reset [??] to nothing anyway. Wouldn't
they be happier with nothing but being with family?
- I feel
as many occasions migrant workers and minority ethnic groups
are all too often associated with low paid jobs and poor quality
of life in Northern Ireland. As they are different, people are
intimidated by them and often believe that somehow they are
dangerous. I think there should be more minority ethnic groups
intergrated more into society so they can become part of the
community so they can receive the respect that they deserve,
as every other person has it so why can't they?
- I feel
it doesn't affect me.
- I feel
its fine for migrant workers to come over to the UK to help
make money for their families, But there has been a vast increase
in crime including theft, murder, rape, stabbings and other
antisocial behavior involving a minority of migrants which is
not right.
- I feel
it's very hard as a shop assistant to serve and understand the
needs of migrants and they then get angry when you keep asking
them what they are saying. When I go into a shop to buy something,
I prefer to go into somewhere where the staff can understand
and chat to.
- I feel
people in Northern ireland should be pushed to get employed
if unemployment as it's their own fault. Migrant workers are
brought over as there are so many unemployed..
- I feel
people would accept migrants if they were to speak our language
while living here - it's only manners.
- I feel
that if they are living here, they should have the right to
a job, as if someone born in Northern Ireland were to travel
to an Eastern European country, looking for work, I don't believe
they would be badly treated.
- I feel
that some are using and abusing our welfare system. However
I completely support any foreign workers who are Doctors or
Nurses etc.
- I feel
that the negativity is not only coming from mainland UK towards
minority ethnic groups but from the local crime that they cause
e.g. Muggings, rapes, robbery, abduction etc.
- I feel
that the only reason they come is to do jobs that people here
would not already do, so therefore they are not stealing jobs
of locals.
- I feel
that they are not taking jobs away from local people. If local
people had more of a drive to learn skills they could get jobs.
Jobs in the retail industry require next to no skills, therefore
local people have no excuse for being unemployed, unless they
are ill or disabled.
- I feel
that they can be mistreated because they have taken a lot of
jobs, but from their side, fair play, as they are making a living
to help support their families, which is more than what some
of the people who are suppose to have the 'right' to the bad
jobs are doing.
- I feel
that they deserve a good life, as much as the locals over here,
however at the same time I think we need to protect jobs and
resources for local people.
- I feel
that they do come over here and take all of our jobs.
- I feel
that they have every night to be here and cause our society
to be multicultural. That I feel is a positive thing.
- I feel
that they should be welcomed by the habitants of Northern Ireland.
They give us a chance to learn about different cultures and
will make our society more cosmopolitan.
- I feel
they are being victimised by people in N.I because they are
willing to do jobs which local people refuse to do.
- I feel
they are welcome here since a lot of people from NI & Ireland
move to their countries & are mostly welcomed. Why should
it be any different for them here?
- I feel
they deserve to have jobs as they work for their money, unlike
those people on benefits.
- I feel
they should be treated equally. And paid the same wage.
- I feel
they get a hard wrap, and that we as a society need to be more
open both youth and the older generation.
- I find
it is a disgrace that they get EMA and I don't just because
my parents both work, I have even been in Westminster to debate
about it, but it still hasn't changed. It should be the same
for everyone.
- I have
a mixed view. I do believe migrants take a lot of our jobs as
they are paid low but at the same time Irish went out to America
for jobs years ago and go to other countries.
- I have
been raised to believe all people are equal. Our family have
some very good Bulgarian friends who have settled in Northern
Ireland and some good Polish workers who work for my dad. If
local people got off their fat lazy backsides they would get
the jobs. Bulgarians and Poles are excellent workers!
- I have
Chinese friends, black friend and my boyfriend was born in the
Philippines they are no different, at the end of the day were
all human.
- I have
found that from working with people from ethnic minorities,
especially from Lithuania and Poland, that they are extremely
hardworking and dedicated. The majority of them are only over
during the summer, trying to make some money for university
and if it wasn't for them the restaurant I work in would not
be open today. They realise and understand why people from here
are prejudiced towards them and do their best to stay out of
people's way and work a lot instead of socialising. I asked
one of my friend why he thought people were so prejudices towards
ethnic minorities and he said he thinks its because we live
here. So we socialise and work here. They are expected to be
here and work only as their home is elsewhere. So if they are
seen to be socialising at all, they are seen to be lazy.
- I have
no objection to any of them coming into this country if they
abide by the laws and contribute to the economy.
- I have
no problem at all with them, I welcome to learn about religions
and cultures. I am very open to having friends of the ethnic
minorities it there were more my age that I meet.
- I have
no problem with them at all because they are equal with us -
they deserve the jobs just as much because they have left home
to find work. However, in my local paper it always seems to
be foreign people breaking the law and facing court. Also society
has became too politically correct with things , e.g. can't
call people black anymore.
- I have
no problem with them- in my mind if they get a job have it is
because they deserve need it like anyone else does.
- I have
nothing against their color of skin. I just think the[re] is
too many.
- I have
nothing against them.
- I just
think that it is not right what people in Northern Ireland are
doing to people from a different background because everyone
is the same in some way and we would not like it being done
on us.
- I personally
do not feel intimidated by people in other ethnic group but
I think that many people in northern Ireland think differently
and share their own views on the topic
- I personally
do not have a problem with migrant workers in Northern Ireland
and feel that they have a right to work here and earn money
to support their families, however I do know people who would
feel aggrieved at the fact that migrant worker[s] can get jobs
here while there are many unemployed Irish people living here.
- I personally
have no problem or issues with these people.
- I personally
think, there's too many coming over, because they're putting
us out of jobs! Which isn't fair because we've lived here longer,
so why can't some of them just stay over there?
- I play
rugby with black people and mixed ethical background and they
can be better craic, more respectful and nice[r] than your own
race.
- I rarely
experience meeting many other ethnic groups but when I do find
it very interesting.
- I strongly
disagree about other ethnic groups taken local jobs and it being
unfair to locals, as locals don't know why they have moved to
UK and most ethnic groups are taking the jobs no one else has
took and also work for low pay. They also need to make a living.
It's very unfair to other ethnic groups about locals complaining.
- I strongly
disagree with people saying local jobs are being taken by other
ethnic groups making it unfair to locals. Most of the job migrant
workers 'take' are jobs people in NI probably wouldn't want
- So I don't see why anyone should complain.
- I think
anybody has the right to a job because there is people living
in this country who aren't working for a living and spend there
live on the date.
- I think
cultural diversity is a positive and beneficial for both the
society and the individual.
- I think
diversity is a good thing, however am worried about the lack
of jobs for 'Locals'
- I think
everyone has a right to live and work. Where-ever they please,
but in northern Ireland jobs are scarce enough these days.
- I think
everyone should be able to compete for jobs on an equal basis,
no matter what ethnic group they belong to.
- I think
everyone should be treated equally in spite of their colour
or where they come from.
- I think
if people came over to the UK to get a better job so they can
therefore provide for their families better, than they should
do the best they can e.g. get a job. I believe everyone should
be treated equally.
- I think
it is good as it shows me, if not more people more of the world
without ever having to travel it. It's also good as people may
think of our country a place to get a better life.
- I think
it is good to have different cultures being brought to Northern
Ireland, as it teaches people knew things and helps show us
there is more out there beyond Northern Ireland it also helps
us to experienced different ways of life.
- I think
it is unfair to say migrant workers are taking local jobs making
it unfair to locals because if most of the time they work in
places like McDonalds where locals rarely apply for, they are
judged on the same criteria as locals for other jobs and the
employers should choose the applicant who is best suited, not
based on ethnicity. We can learn a lot from educated people
from other ethnicities.
- I think
it's fair that people if they can gain the opportunity to earn
more money else where may should take it. After w[ork]ing with
several filipino and polish people I find that they're very
motivated.
- I think
it's great that other people from different countries and cultures
are coming to Northern Ireland. They do contribute to the economy
in a positive way and it's really interesting to learn about
difference cultures, races and religions. However I do think
that they are exploited sometimes-getting paid a lower rate
and do face discrimination.
- I think
it's unfair how migrant workers are treated.
- I think
it's unfair, that people who live here can't get jobs because
of migrant workers & minority ethnic groups.
- I think
migrant workers are great because they work so hard doing the
jobs that local people are reluctant to do. Ethnic groups help
us to have a more multicultural society.
- I think
our community should not be so angry at migrant workers. Yes,
they may take jobs from locals, but for all we know they too
may have that experience for that job. Besides many M[igrant]
W[orkers] decide to work in places like McDonalds and Burger
King, because some employers here refuse to accept foreigners
to work for them. My opinion is if you have the qualifications
for a job, and no criminal record, then you have the right to
that job.
- I think
people of other ethnic communities should be welcomed. I think
its very stupid and unfair that these people are attacked and
the people causing and it causes our country to suffer because
it gives Ireland/N.I a bad name.
- I think
that all people from different cultures deserve a good chance
in life and it is only four if migrant workers earn jobs in
N.I as they are willing to work as hard as locals and earn their
place in northern Ireland and become a citizen in this country,
as it may be difficult joining into a very different society
and cultures.
- I think
that everyone should be allowed to come and go as they please,
to everywhere in the world. I think they should be made welcome,
however I think they should be educated about our life style.
- I think
that having different cultures on Northern Ireland is something
to be encouraged a huge attempt must be made to stamp out any
racism.
- I think
that if minority ethnic groups come over the Northern Ireland
they should try to fit into our culture so that locals feel
more comfortable with them, they can see them as anyone else.
I think that also before they do decide to come over that they
can speak English well or even quite well to decrease the uncertainty
of their race.
- I think
that if minority ethnic groups have the qualities and qualifications
for a job they should have as much the chance to get that job
as anyone else.
- I think
that it is understandable why locals would be annoyed but it
does not affect me so I do not have a strong view. It does not
bother me.
- I think
that regional workers absolutely have the right to come and
look for a better life in another country. That is what I would
do if I had the chance and was living in a poorer country. As
usual, I think it is a tiny minority of immigrants, like the
beggars you see in Belfast City Centre, who are giving everyone
else a bad name. I think it is a disgrace for people to judge
other people because they come from a different background.
- I think
that the only problem with migrant workers is that they mostly
have jobs that require little skill. If skilled and educated
workers come over it would be much better for the economy as
they would help boost economic growth.
- I think
that they aren't being accepted into society especially because
they are doing the jobs that nobody else want to do e.g. binmen.
I also think that they should learn English, even just a little
Basic English before they start work.
- I think
that they do not attempt to associate with other people only
there own.
- I think
that they should be allowed to live and work in Northern Ireland
if they wish. I work with polish people and they are lovely
people.
- I think
that when they come to live in the UK they should become more
involved in the community so that we can learn about them &
they can learn about us.
- I think
the majority of them are a great asset to our county. They are
willing to do the jobs many citizens refuse to do because they
are not necessarily paid well as the majority of them are working.
Law abiding citizens who are not living off the state, I see
no reason why they should be criticised.
- I think
there should be a limit otherwise people who are actually from
NI might have to emigrate.
- I think
there should be governmental support for the mingling of ethnic
groups in order to get rid of sectarian, racist and ethnic violence
before it gets too late.
- I think
they are good for the diversity of northern Ireland. And to
learn about their different cultures.
- I think
they are playing a positive role in our community.
- I think
they do mostly do jobs that people here wouldn't be willing
to do and that they shouldn't be judged on the basis of other
people from the same ethnic groups actions even though it can
be hard to forget the stereotypes.
- I think
they play an important role in Northern Ireland, take up jobs
which many Northern Irish people deem 'dirty' etc. But then
they complain that the migrant workers are "stealing their
jobs"
- I think
they should try to integrate into the community more. They should
adapt to British life, not having Britain adapt to them - the
introduction of [Sharia] Law in England.
- I think
they take most of our jobs and we don't g to there country to
take there.
- I think
this sectarian hatred is now becoming evident again and needs
to be stopped however, it wasn't happen unless the main authority
figures in the minority groups come to an agreement, The racism
these migrant figures are facing is becoming too much and needs
to be stopped. Those people are only trying to support their
families. However, those of the migrant communities who commit
crimes in our society should be society punished.
- I think
too many migrant work[er]s are coming into N I as there are
little jobs as it is and people are hiring them because they
will work for minimum wage.
- I think
we should be taught in school more about why migrant workers
come here, so we can see that they are not that different from
someone who has always lived in northern Ireland. I also think
that the language barrier contribute greatly to the segregation.
- I try to
take people as I find them, wherever they are from.
- I welcome
diversity and would like to all a great big m[e]lting pot where
all rules [?] could become as one colone [?], religion doesn't
matter everyone has qualities to share and enrich each other[']s
lives.
- I welcome
migrant working with all my heart, as for the most part, they
do an honest day's work and have every night to work in this
country because of their ability to work hard. Many desperately
need to send money back to their familiars in their homelands,
and feel that us should try our best to support them in their
[???].
- I work
with a few Indians, they are nice and all, my only problem is
when they speak to each other as it puts me in a uncomfortable
position as they may be talking about me.
- I would
like to say I can't get a job because of them.
- I would
say that as long as they obey the laws of the land, I am fine
with them.
- If I would
be able to support my family better by moving to the UK if I
was a migrant worker, I wouldn't hesitate to go. It[']s fair
enough to seek betters jobs.
- If the
locals in Northern Ireland got off the dole, and got a job,
then there would be no jobs for ethnic minorities people here
try to find reasons to hate ethnic minorities.
- If the
workers are coming from EU countries why aren't the conditions
in their own country not as good. They are detracting from our
economy.
- If they
are prepared to work harder and get the job they deserve it.
- If they
have fluent English and a working permit they should be allowed
to apply for any job in Northern Ireland.
- If they
live in Northern Ireland, they should speak English.
- In general,
I would give anyone the benefit of the doubt until I know them,
but in the case of ethnic groups, it may be time to change our
laws, on deportation in particular. Some serious crimes go nearly
unpunished because the perpetrator is deported instead of being
fined or jailed, notably in offenses like traffic accident where
this leaves the victim uncompensated.
- In most
cases they are doing the work the locals can't be bothered looking
for.
- In my opinion,
the ethnic minority of our population are handle [?] grateful
and hard-working.
- In my opinion.
I see it as a positive thing that minority ethnic groups are
coming & living in N. Ireland so that people can mix with
them and learn that the[y']re not as different as everyone might
think they are. The[y']re equal as everyone else!
- In response
to the statement above: a lot of local jobs are being taken
by other ethnic groups which is unfair to locals, I think that
there is alot of jobs going to others of different ethnic groups
but because they apply for them. The people that complain are
usually people who don't work and can't be bothered to find
a job. They use this as an excuse.
- In the
true Irish term 'wise up' after all we are all still human beings.
Many people try to be individual and we should accept them as
who they are.
- It can
be intimidating when a group of foreign men are talking in their
own language whilst looking at you.
- It doesn't
bother me, I feel if they can do the work they should have the
same opportunities as us to get a job. There are polish people
in the kitchen at the restaurant I work part time at, and they're
very good workers and nice people.
- It is a
basic human right for someone to be able to choose where they
live. They generally are doing jobs people would like/don't
do e.g. cleaners. However people now use this as an excuse for
unemployment which is generally due to them being too lazy to
do themselves. It's unfair.
- It is mostly
a positive thing as there is a more culturally diverse society
but perhaps they should not be given any priority over local
people when [it] comes to jobs - everyone should be considered
equality.
- It is possible
that in the eagerness to protect minority ethnic groups, majority
groups can be discriminated against. If an argument was witnessed
between a member of a minority ethnic group and a person who
is not, it would be assumed that the latter is racist or prejudiced.
- It is sad
that they are treated badly. People should have internationalist
views and ideology rather than nationalist.
- It is sometimes
difficult but try to adopt northern Irish culture to incorporate
successfully. It is also important to speak English and learning
long is appreciated by people here.
- It is the
job of the employer to pay what they want to pay. I can see
both sides to the argument but don't know enough about it to
make a decision on how I feel.
- It isn't
fair the way they are taking local jobs while the locals have
to survive on the dole as they've been made redundant. It's
disgraceful and wrong.
- It may
be unfair to local[s] in some cases that migrant workers get
local jobs, but everyone is entitled to a job, regardless of
where they live/lived further more, most migrant workers work
for less than locals, which is often not very much.
- It must
be hard for them when there is so many strong stereotypes already
against them.
- It's not
fair that they are taking the jobs of people who live in Northern
Ireland.
- Its unfair
for people to think that ethnic groups are taking up jobs as
they in most cases are taking jobs that we as British people
do not want.
- Just that
I don't believe people from N.I realise how much suffering and
hardship many of these people go through in their own country.
There are many N.I people who are prepared to take benefit and
not get jobs so why should other people who are willing to work
not be able to come here to work when there are northern Irish
who make no attempt to be employed or give up to easily.
- Just that
I think everyone is welcome
- Just that
they should be given a chance. Migrant workers put a lot more
effort into the work than local people would. People from a
different ethnic background are human beings too there should
be no difference made. They have feelings and a personality
and should be greated with the same respect as we are.
- Just treat
others with respect.
- Locals
are angry because migrant workers take the jobs that they do
not want. Also ethnic minorities have been associated with crime
on the local areas.
- Majority
have poor english
- Many believe
that the jobs are been taken, and in some case they are. However
it is usually the less desirable jobs which they take up, therefore
the economy moves on. However I believe it is wrong to employe
migrants just because they can be paid less.
- Many have
a bad reputation because of terrorist attacks in UK and throughout
the rest of the world. Many people don't welcome immigrants,
not because they're racist but because they don't like change
& unfamiliarity.
- Many jobs
are being taken by migrant workers as they are keen and able
to work, contrasted to many Northern Ireland residents who are
happy to receive benefits rather than earn a decent living!
- Many migrant
workers do not have many chances to integrate with society &
so are secluded in a way. 'Trend' to harass & offend them
has grown and many are generalised in terms of others experience
& not each individual.
- Many people
find it unfair that foreigners are taking 'their' jobs and that
they have their own country, Why should they come to ours.
- Many people
say that they take local jobs and it's not fair to local people
but they don't actually take into account the fact that migrant
workers do jobs that many local people don't want to do.
- Maybe more
information given on the jobs that they are working.
- Migrant
workers & minority ethnic groups face a lot of problems
in society solely because they are not from Northern Ireland
but since working alongside them and interacting with them,
you realise they are just like us.
- Migrant
workers & their families shouldn't receive benefits.
- Migrant
workers are only an excuse for locals on the DLA.
- Migrant
workers are useful because they do jobs that others don't want
to do. Migrant are also important in keeping Britain's birth
rates higher then they would be without them - help in the long
run because Britain is becoming more dependent.
- Migrant
workers boost the economy and jobs they now have have always
been there. People complaining about the way they have 'stolen'
jobs perhaps just lacked the initiative to find one before the
influx of migrant workers.
- Migrant
workers should not get a job before Irish citizens. Maybe if
they have better qualification, but never because it costs less
to employ them.
- Migrant
workers shouldn't be treated like slaves just cause they're
not from this country. Also other regular, long term workers[']
hours shouldn't be cut and done away with just because migrant
workers are on a lower wadge.
- Migrant
works have come to Northern Ireland to seek work. Migrant workers
work [in] jobs the locals refuse to work.
- Migrants
workers and minority ethnic groups are being stereotyped due
to the media. The main suspects of terrorist attacks are automatically
presumed to be dark skinned and wear a turban. It's like saying
you can tell a catholic because their eyes are too close together
but yet the same is said from a catholic point of view about
Protestants, young people need to be taught about these groups
in society and not just listen to the media.
- More integrated
between minority groups & white Irish is required. We don't
know those people, more of push to include them into the Irish
way of life/whilst not insulting their culture.
- More than
welcome but should not interfere with as culture as he could
not do in Arab countries.
- Most are
very hard working and it is only some who put a bad name on
the rest.
- Most employers
employ different races because it is cheaper, I feel that the
pay should be equal though it is unfair to generalise migrant
workers and minority ethnic groups because In fairness most
work for their achievements, this point should be made more
clear. Example doctors.
- Most of
the migrant workers in NI are doing jobs which the Northern
Irish won't do as they may feel their above that type of work.
Also I think it's terrible that migrant workers are being paid
unfairly and that something should be done about it. Also migrant
workers are taking local jobs which means that it is harder
for locals to get a job however it is up to us to allow these
migrants to acquire skills and talents which they can use and
bring back to their own country as so they can help their own
country by teaching these skills to others their as so they
don't have to travel and so they can get jobs in their own countries.
- Most of
the migrant workers only get the jobs that people from Ireland
don't want to do.
- Most of
them are alright but it is scary how many of them have knives
in their pockets.
- Most of
them are friendly and nice when you get to know them. The few
that are bad and do things which are illegal make people in
Northern Ireland feel that all that ethnic group are like that.
- Most of
them are here to work, not cause trouble although it does happen
unfortunately.
- Most of
us came here, or to another ancestral home at one point or another,
so why should people discriminate? People all around the world
are basically the same. A few billion cells, a heart, a mind.
- Most people
welcome migrant workers and minority ethnic groups into Northern
Ireland with generosity and kindness. It's just when the migrant
workers and minority ethnic groups do not accept this purely
because they do not understand the local people, they want to
go about their business themselves, this is when the mood towards
these groups changes.
- My dad
lost his job.
- Nice people
- No I don't
have a problem with them. I think they are treated well in our
country. As long as they respect our culture.
- No, I don't
have a problem with migrant workers, everyone needs a job to
get, money to buy, food, clothes etc.
- No, they
should be all welcomed as we are all emigrants. They are doing
the work that locals won't do.
- No. Why
don't penguins fly? They don't have enough money to buy plane
tickets.
- Nope well
they don't really bother me because we do the same so whoever
criticises there is slightly hypostatical¬ as everyone wants
to move/venture at some time in their life. It's as Irish trait.
- Northern
Irish people judge migrants way too much. They don't give people
a chance, they just stereotype straight away.
- Of those
that I have met in hotels or Indian/Chinese restaurants, they
seem really friendly and tend to work with a bigger smile on
their faces than some of the locals you see.
- Often appear
to be closed societies.
- Only that
I feel their presence is a good thing and it encourages cross
community relation even between people from Northern Ireland
and it is good to have such a diverse range of people. Also,
people who believe in prejudiced stereotypes are very narrow
minded.
- Other religions
do not bother me but when the person of that religion is of
a bigoted of sectarian nature, I do not have any time for them
'so to speak.'
- Other then
at work and school they are not integrated into social networks
and therefore many people do not have the opportunity to get
to know them.
- People
are reluctant to be acceptant of ethic of ethic communities
views as so many members of it don't seem to respect us, like
extremists and terrorists.
- People
feel intimidated by migrant workers and minority ethnic groups
as they are convinced that they have only came to Northern Ireland
to take local jobs. However, I believe this is the wrong impression
to have as migrant workers are doing jobs locals would refuse
to do.
- People
get arrested for calling a teddy bear Mohammad in Muslim countries
yet Muslims in the UK say that we are unfair to their religion
and have to be given a special status, complete bullshit.
- People
have a perception of minority ethnic groups as they seen them
as people who are taking things off the state & others-in
terms of benefits and people who won't go out to work. However
I believe some, although not all would like to better their
future and lifestyle.
- People
say that these immigrant's are taking all the job's in places
like northern Ireland but they only want to make a living like
everyone else.
- People
say 'they are taken our jobs' but at least these people are
wiling to work, not like some people in N Ireland.
- People
should not complain because they are taking the jobs that some
people in Northern Ireland wouldn't want to do.
- People
should treat them with more respect. It is not easy for migrant
workers to come to another country, and have to speak and learn
a whole new language and on top of that they do not need abuse
directed at them just because they are from a different country.
People should think that if they were to move from their home
country to the other side of the world. Wouldn't they want to
be welcomed and treated equality.
- People
sometimes stereotype against people that have a different skin
color or are from a different race.
- People
wouldn't be so racist. We go to their countries on holiday or
to stay and a big fuss isn't made of it.
- Personally
I think that here are too many migrant workers in Northern Ireland
and they are then receiving benefits which they then send back
to their own country and this is not benefiting our society.
Although on the other hand, migrant workers can be seen as a
good thing as they do be jobs that lazy people in our society
won't do.
- Some of
them are very scary, following you around town and giving creepy
looks, also some if not most (And some women) talk about you
and make it obvious when they walk past.
- Should
be allowed jobs because often they work a lot harder and do
the jobs which the local feel they are too 'good' to do.
- Should
be more accepted, should be treated as a local.
- Shouldn't
get benefits, unless born here.
- Society
are too quick to judge, they need to realise that all migrant
are not the same and are not all class in the same group.
- Some are
good, some bad
- Some are
nice, some are not, they are arrogant and they smell.
- Some do
cause a lot of trouble, Polish in Ballymena.
- Some jobs
are being taken by migrant workers, but they are generally the
unskilled and difficult ones that locals do not want to do.
- Some of
the foreign attend my school and I feel they get to do anything
they please whereas if we were to do the same thing, we would
get a detention or shouted at. Differences are made between
the different religions which I don't feel is fair.
- Some of
them are treated unfairly whereas others have created a bad
name for themselves and others, mainly Lithuanian.
- Some of
them can be dangerous as they are violent but some of them are
genuinely nice and so it is hard to judge them. Talking to a
strange foreign national would be difficult because they could
get violent for no reason.
- Some people
in Northern Ireland look down on the migrant workers, they think
that they are stupid just because their English is not that
good. But in actual fact some of the migrant workers can work
better than those from Northern Ireland.
- Some people
may come here because the quality of life is better, they may
work to improve their life for themselves and earn a better
image to look after their other relatives.
- Sometimes
people complain about how local jobs are being taken by migrant
workers but sometimes they are doing this country services because
they do the jobs that we don't want to do and are sometimes
paided a lot less.
- Sometimes
we, as white N. Irish people, are criticised for discriminating
against immigrants who want to keep their own culture in our
country but they need to show some consideration for our culture.
- Sometimes
when I have encountered migrants workers. Problems are that
English understanding - they haven't understand what I have
been trying to say-they are also very keen to help and please
but can lead to some confusion.
- Stay in
their own country.
- Stop living
on benefits steal jobs.
- Stop taking\bringing
drugs into N Ireland.
- That people
shouldn't judge them so immediately and give them a chance.
One day I would want to live in America and I wouldn't like
to be treated like that.
- That some
have caused harm to people in local [areas], hat's why there
is a bad attitude against them. But others are nice and are
just to help their families so give them a chance just be careful.
- That they
should all treated the same and treated equally in society.
- The increasing
number of illegal immigrants getting into the country damages
the image of any foreign person in the country.
- The Majority
are dead on. Just like ourselves.
- The migrant
workers have increased.
- The people
that came into our country do the jobs most of us refuse to
do. Irish people in general are not willing to work for little
money and then sit and complain about not having a job! Fair
enough people may not be able to work but the ones who can should
get up of their back ends and get a job!
- The very
fact that these questions are being asked in this survey highlight
differences which may not have been apparent i.e. ask to count.
How many other religion friends or people from other countries
I have, I understand that you may have to compile such statistics,
but as we are moving on from the events of recent history in
our country. thefore I feel it is better to li[v]e and let li[v]e.
Life it's self is tough enough!!
- There are
a large number of jobs being occupied by foreign workers, however
they are mostly jobs that local people do not want.
- There are
very few places where we can interact with minority groups.
- There has
been a rise in crime blamed on ethnic groups who are unemployed,
as in some countries (e. g. Romania) stealing is simply part
of their culture
- There has
been so many of them have come into one country. (I and everyone
[k]now that has lived here all are lives we cannot get work.
Everywhere you go the foreign are working taking our money which
we need.
- There is
a general suspicion & ominous prejudice against Eastern
Europeans in particularly. Due to reports of violence, rape
& social disruption they bring.
- There needs
to be more integration in schools and youth groups and less
racist brainwashing material on TV and in video games.
- There seems
to be an increasing amount.
- There should
be a limit as there is a lot of people taking our jos.
- There should
be more activities organised outside of school to bring the
different types of people together. Schools can teach children
more accurately about the different types of people & their
reason for coming to Ireland.
- There should
be more integrated colleges around Northern Ireland to give
people the opportunity to go to a[n] integrated school.
- The[y']re
taking jobs that the people of Northern Ireland are unwilling
to do.
- There taking
everyones jobs - Credit Crunch
- There's
to many coming in we[']re a small country. Limit the amount
before we are out numbered in our own land nothing amount [??].
If not levels of hate crimes will rise.
- These migrant
workers and minority ethnic groups are painted negatively by
the press and media. It seems to me that only negative things
like crime reach the news and news papers. Positive things like
different music or food being introduced in to N.I. are never
shown much appreciation.
- These people
are no different from us besides colour or place of origin so
why should they be exposed to abuse any more than me or you.
- They actually
should be speaking fluent English and obey the rules of the
country.
- They are
all after the same thing as our parents, to look after themselves
and their families. If they get a lot of our local jobs it's
not that they are stealing them they are just more hard-working.
- They are
allright as long as they aren't in the Country illegally.
- They are
costing the tax payer money as they are claiming benefits, free
housing, free health care etc.
- They are
doing jobs which people from Northern Ireland aren't willing
to do.
- They are
entitled to be here. They are trying to make a better life for
themselves and their families. Irish people did the same.
- They are
good hard workers! Sometimes they get away with things, but
they shouldn't e.g. rape etc.
- They are
harmless and I think it is good to have different people in
the country as we can learn a lot from them.
- They are
human beings just trying to make a better future for themselves,
just like us!
- They are
just the same as us.
- They are
just trying to make a living and support their families. I think
they are good workers and only want to fit in and be happy.
- They are
made do jobs which people from here don't want to do.
- They are
nice people because I work with polish people and they are insecure
coming to a land where they can't speak the language but they
have learnt it now and are really kind people they have taught
me some polish phrases.
- They are
not given 'proper jobs'. Most work in local shops rather then
lawyers, doctors, teachers etc.
- They are
not protected well enough. Paint attacks are on the increase,
arguably they are replacing certain ones. People discriminate
often because of their seemingly irritating [?] jobs, this isn't
their fault. We need to be more sincere like Canada or even
England.
- They are
often given low-end jobs regardless of their qualification which
adds to the stereotyping that occurs. They often connect with
each other rather than try and integrate perhaps because N Irish
people don't want/let them integrate.
- They are
taking most local jobs because they don't need paid as much
and when I worked with two migrants they didn't do the[ir job
rite, I done all the work. They send all over money back to
their families.
- They are
taking over everywhere.
- They are
welcome if they provide something to our country.
- They aren't
taken our jobs their doing jobs nobody else want to do i.e.
cleaning toilets.
- They bring
a lot of trouble to Northern Ireland with them fighting and
stabbing one another, they are making a lot of trouble for themselves.
- They cannot
be blamed currently for taking 'local' jobs because there are
none to begin with.
- They come
here, take our jobs, get paid are money then send it home to
their country's. I blame them for the credit crunch. They steal
are money.
- They deserve
work like old of us. But they should be equal split out of jobs.
- They do
not affect the way I live at this part of Northern Ireland,
in fact there has recently been a clothes shop opened by a young
Lithuania girl which many teenage girls my age love.
- They do
stand out and annoy quite a lot of people in my town. Not me
though as I don't have any contact with them.
- They don't
get paid enough, they work for buttons and do the jobs we don't
want.
- They don't
like us.
- They get
jobs because they want them and local people don't.
- They have
as much right to the jobs here as much as everyone living here
as they are living here also. So it isn't unfair to locals as
we are all locals.
- They have
the right to [be] treated equally and be respected within the
community.
- They help
the economy.
- They make
the culture more complete, it is more interesting.
- They only
seem to take the jobs that no one want.
- They should
abide to our rules & laws instead of provisions [being]
made in these to adapt to them.
- They should
be accepted and treated equally.
- They should
be given a fair chance like the rest of us have had at a good
life.
- They should
be given a greater welcome.
- They should
be given fair chance like everyone use in society.
- They should
be paid equally.
- They should
be treated the way we would like to be treated.
- They should
learn English so they can socialise with the majority and the
label "ethnic minority" can be discarded.
- They should
not have local jobs and I don't like them being intimidating.
- They shouldn't
be here taking our jobs, no wonder there are so many people
of Northern Ireland unemployed, and can't find work, migrant
workers are the reason for it. People of Northern Ireland should
get 1st choice of the job! There are too many migrant workers
in Northern Ireland!!
- They shouldn't
be treated any differently.
- They sometimes
are berated unfairly even though they want to work & do
the jobs that the locals won't.
- They still
have the same right as us, so people shouldn't be prejudiced
against them.
- They take
advantage to social services making false claims.
- They take
low paid jobs we won't take. I have no problem with them but
not millions of them where they seem to be taken over us. It[']s
like you wouldn't see a white person in a certain part in Africa.
- They usually
do poor jobs because we don't want to.
- They wouldn't
be so bad if they didn't fight with their shadow.
- They're
all welcome and are entitled to come here.
- To be a
bit of an idealist, I think that everyone has equal rights,
no matter [where] they are originated, what creed they belong
to. Everyone has a right to a comfortable, happy life.
- To be honest,
the migrant workers are just like anybody else those days just
trying to do well in life and the only reason people from Northern
Ireland are giving out is that they are intimidated and the
only know too well that they are doing the job better!! Fair
enough, I can see where they are coming from, but are the Irish
not doing the same in other countries!!?? Bit rich coming from
them don't you think?
- Too many
migrant workers.
- We are
a part of the EU and they do the jobs we don't want to. Migrants
should be welcomed.
- We need
them because so many young people don't want a job.
- We should
show each other respect. We've been born into the same world.
- Well in
my school you could count the people from minority ethnic groups
on one hand. I really don't feel it to be a problem, I do have
close friends who are black and one good is polish and I love
be [?] to bits.
- Well it
is very hard to get a house because there is so many moving
in.
- What ethnic
group they are doesn't matter. It's the person that matters!
If a person from one of these ethnic groups takes a job you
wanted, its probably because they are a harder worker and it
means more to them.
- White/local
people should get jobs over them.
- Why is
there so many of them! They are tracing all of our jobs!
- Yes a lot
of local jobs are being taken by other ethnic group which is
'unfair' to locals but most of the ethnic group are taking jobs
that people in the local community don't want to do.
- Yes I think
there is too many migrant workers taking over our jobs.
- Yes many
people think it is unfair to local that migrant workers and
minority ethnic groups are taking jobs however many don't overlook
the fact that these people are trying to make a better lives
for them and their families. We cannot be against that, we should
emphasise migrant workers etc.
- Yes they
come over here half of them illegal and take our jobs and they
get houses which people in Northern Ireland need.
- Yes, as
migrants and minority ethnic groups must feel very intimated
and threatened emigrating to northern Ireland as there is high
racial tension figures and they are just there to make a living
for the[ir] family.
- Yes, I
feel that they are getting in the way of local citizens by taking
up the jobs leaving less for us, plus, they can be very intimidating
and rude at times which show that they take their entry to N.Ireland
for granted.
- Yes, I
think that the credit crunch has happened because foreign people
has come into our country took most of our jobs, getting paid
less than we are so their getting kept on, instead of us.
- You can
make friends with any race and religions anywhere.
- Young people
today such as myself & my friend wouldn't think of someone
of a different value as different to ourselves. It wouldn't
cross my mind to ask myself or others the questions on this
survey. It may just be that this discrimination is more concentrated
in some areas and less in other areas such as Fermanagh w[h]ere
I live it is very un-sectarian and un-racist.
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