McGuinness Supports Australia Emigration Booklet

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness has supported the launch of a booklet intended to assist Irish people emigrating to Australia.

The booklet has been released by The Claddagh Association; a not-for-profit organisation which aims to provide support for the Irish community in Western Australia. It is led by Joan Ross, a native of Lurgan who now lives in Perth, Australia.

Today Mr McGuinness met a delegation from the Claddagh Association.

The Minister said: "In the current economic climate many people are considering emigrating to gain work and a better lifestyle overseas.

"Today’s launch of the Association’s information booklet provides practical information and guidance for people considering emigration to Western Australia. It covers a range of advice from applying for a visa to jobs and cultural information.

"I would advise anyone interested in making the move to Western Australia to read this book before making their final decision."

President Joan Ross said: "Generally these people come unprepared and with an unrealistic expectation of life in Perth, with the result they find themselves homeless and without food. That’s when the Claddagh responds to their plight. When help arrives they are very grateful for the assistance provided and in most cases the provision of accommodation and food vouchers is enough to set them back on the right track."

The Minister continued: "The Claddagh Association should be congratulated for their support of the Irish community in times of hardship and trauma in Western Australia. Their voluntary work provides an important safety net to help people in crisis situation, where all other avenues have been exhausted.

"Over the past three years the Association has risen to the increased demands for their help, particularly in requests for help for financial and emotional support."

(IT/CD)