Statement: Senator Bacik to Speak at Launch of The Integration Centre

STATEMENT BY SENATOR IVANA BACIK

Labour Seanad Spokesperson for Justice, Equality & Law Reform
Tuesday 13th July 2010

SENATOR BACIK TO SPEAK AT LAUNCH OF THE INTEGRATION CENTRE

At the launch today of The Integration Centre at 1pm in the Mont Clare Hotel in Dublin, Senator Ivana Bacik will be Guest Speaker and will say

“This launch represents the merger of two dynamic organisations – Integrating Ireland the immigrant network - and the Refugee Information Service. By merging, I know that your new organisation will be just as dynamic in representing the interests of migrants, and in promoting the integration of people from immigrant backgrounds in Ireland.

“I fully support the work of The Integration Centre and its goals to promote an integrated, successful Ireland. Coming from an immigrant background myself, I understand the challenges faced by immigrants. Immigrants have huge potential to contribute to Irish society and its economy - as was the case of my own grandfather, Karel Bacik, who established Waterford Crystal when he brought his young family over to Ireland from the Czech Republic after World War II. I am sure that The Integration Centre will undoubtedly aid the process of moving to a more integrated, successful country.

“Unfortunately, despite our traditional friendly reputation, migrants here often perceive Ireland as unwelcoming. That is why initiatives like the Integration Centre are so welcome, as they present a different, more inclusive vision of Ireland – and a concept of ‘Irishness' that seeks to integrate us all.”

ENDS