We have long had emigration in Ireland. But the nature of…
“We have long had emigration in Ireland. But the nature of emigration has changed. With ferries to Britain and the continent, as well as air travel, emigration isn't the cutoff it used to be. In addition, some of our young people are being educated to levels beyond our present capacity to provide the jobs they are qualified to do. So they go abroad. Many want to come back, especially when they have children they would want to be raised in the Irish society and in the Irish educational system.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Irish emigration has shifted from a permanent exit to a temporary, education‑driven movement, with many youths leaving for better jobs and later returning for family reasons.
In simple terms: Emigration now often temporary and education‑driven, with returns for family.
Key Takeaway
Support policies that create skilled jobs and welcome returning diaspora.
Themes
migration
education
brain drain
family
policy
Mood
concerned
optimistic
Type
policy
sociological
When to use this quote
- University graduates seeking jobs abroad
- families returning with children
- government job creation programs
- re‑integration support services
Key Concepts
Human capital
diaspora dynamics
economic development
Questions to Reflect On
- How can Ireland expand high‑skill jobs quickly?
- What incentives would encourage return migration?
A Different Perspective
Limited domestic job creation may still force permanent loss of talent.