Sir, - Speaking as one of the "diaspora" abroad, I would just like to point out two issues that people seem to forget when comparing the millions who emigrated to the US from Ireland and the recent immigration problem in Ireland.
Firstly, as an English-speaking people, it is easier for us to assimilate into another English-speaking country. Secondly, we come prepared to work hard and make a go of it. We would not be allowed to claim unemployment benefits or otherwise scrounge off the state. One of the reasons people have left Ireland in more recent years is the desire to have a higher standard of living etc. Taxes in Ireland are appallingly high - they will remain so, if we keep subsidising the economically challenged from abroad. The USA is quite a ruthless (though wonderful) country in many ways. Yet still people want to come here, not for an inherent love of America, but because it spells opportunity. People know if they work hard they can make a great living. Genuine asylum-seekers aside, I suggest that many of the recent influx of foreigners have come to Ireland, not for the love of the country either, but because the word is out that we are suckers for a sob story.
Personally, I have no objection to people of any nationality or race coming into Ireland provided they are prepared to work hard (and learn to speak English). I do object to them receiving handouts from the Government, including housing and other benefits. It is time for us to realise that this issue will hit every tax-payer in Ireland in their pay-packets. Before you agree to support the so-called "refugees", consider how much extra tax (or alternatively, decreased benefits) you are willing to accept for that support, because sooner or later, you will be paying it. - Yours, etc., A. McCabe,
Philadelphia, USA.