A number of outreach English language and literacy initiatives aimed at assisting immigrants could be put in place following the success of a new programme in the North Fingal area of Dublin.
Some 32 immigrants, aged from 25 to 36, are currently taking part in a training programme organised by Integrating Ireland Language Training (IILT) and local development group Co-operation Fingal.
The classes began in June at the Glebe North football club in Balbriggan, Dublin, and will continue until January. Participants will then have the opportunity to obtain Fetac accreditation, facilitating their entry into further education or employment.
"It became apparent to us that language was a major barrier to some immigrants trying to get jobs," Pauline McNamee said at a function to publicise the programme.
"It just wasn't practical for many people to travel into town for classes, so I was being cheeky when I asked to set up something here. But it's been great, and we have had other partnerships from around the country visit to see how they could do something similar."
A special arrangement with the Department of Social and Family Affairs, organised by Co-operation Fingal, allows participants of the course to receive childcare allowance amounting to about €30 a week per child.
Victoria Calanceq (26), from Moldova, has a daughter aged two and could not have joined the class without the allowance.
"I think that when this course finishes, my English will be good enough to practise my profession. I'm a statistician. I have already confirmed my diploma here in Ireland and all I need is to improve my English," she said.
"It's great, because they're all so motivated," explained class tutor Vernice Murray. "Most are highly skilled and just need to improve their language skills."
The current quota of students for the course has been filled and a waiting list is in place for future courses.