A NEW forum, which aims to give migrants a voice in local decisions and a platform to network, held its first meeting in Limerick on Thursday last (November 23).
Setting the stage for inclusive decision-making and social integration was the focus of the inaugural meeting of the Limerick Migrant Integration Forum.
The forum, established by Limerick City and County Council, is part of the EU INTEgreat Project. It aims to empower migrant communities.
Opening the forum’s inaugural meeting, the Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Gerald Mitchell, said: “We recognise the rich diversity of our population with 17 per cent of Limerick residents born outside of Ireland. That exceeds the national average of 15 per cent. These diverse cultural backgrounds are an invaluable asset to Limerick City and County. Let us embrace the strength that lies in our diversity.”
Limerick City and County Council work in partnership with migrant support organisation Doras to deliver EU INTEgreat projects.
John Lannon, CEO of Doras, is enthusiastic about the new initiative.
“The Migrant Forum is a great opportunity for people to have their voices heard and to get involved in local decision making,” he said.
“Limerick is home to so many inspiring and talented leaders from a migrant and refugee background, who are working to make Limerick a better place for all of us to live.
“The establishment of the Migrant Forum creates an important space that will help to facilitate engagement and increase diversity in leadership in Limerick.”
The forum boasts over 30 members from 20 backgrounds. It aims to allow migrants to have a voice in policy and local decision making as well as addressing barriers, challenges, and proposing solutions for issues affecting migrant communities.
