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Who are the Irish in Britain today?
This morning’s thread
There were 681,952 people born on the island of Ireland living in Britain in the last census, but it’s been suggested that up to 6 million have an #Irish grandparent and 1 in 4 have Irish roots of some kind. 1/7
This morning’s thread
There were 681,952 people born on the island of Ireland living in Britain in the last census, but it’s been suggested that up to 6 million have an #Irish grandparent and 1 in 4 have Irish roots of some kind. 1/7
10,000s of Irish people came to live in post-war Britain (pic below)–to staff the fledgling #NHS, to work in construction & other areas of the post war recovery. They seeded a community legacy, though many faced discrimination in jobs & housing-we owe them a great debt today. 2/7
The high numbers who came in the 50s,60s& 70s are reflected in the older median age of Irish community in last census–53–higher than other ethnic groups. This brings particular health challenges that @IrishinBritain addresses in our health campaigns Cuimhne and Green Hearts. 3/7
With the economic transformation in Ireland and wider social changes, the #diaspora today is diverse and globally connected. Irish people and their families work across a whole range of professions – and are proud of their civic contribution. 4/7
We remember that debt owed to earlier migrants, whose foresight and organisation inspired many of our member organisations who provide incredible support – be it through lunch clubs, welfare support or helping tackle loneliness during lockdown. 5/7
In many ways, the Irish story reflects the wider migrant experience in Britain. However, we recognise that the long–standing history of our community and Ireland’s geographic closeness gives us entitlements and protections that more recent groups do not enjoy. 6/7
Our experiences of marginalisation & hostility in the past inform our sense of solidarity with others & this is a civic leadership responsibility of our community. We celebrate all immigrant cultures in Britain & the important contributions they make everywhere & every day. 7/7
