The Forum, established by Limerick City and County Council is part of the EU INTEgreat Project, however it is envisioned to continue long after the end of INTEgreat. This new structure aims to empower migrant communities to collaborate, network and represent a migrant voice towards achieving social inclusion, integration and participation in the decision-making process.
The first steps of establishing Limerick Migrant Integration Forum involved meeting with the migrant leaders in March 2023. It was important that migrants themselves would be involved in the design and creation of this new structure from the very start. An additional open discussion meeting was organised in June 2023 where people from very diverse backgrounds met together to discuss the need for the Forum, its name, structure, operational details, membership and other issues. Taking all of this into account LCCC drafted Terms of Reference for the new structure and Membership Form that after approval was distributed amongst migrant communities.
Setting the stage for inclusive decision-making and social integration was the focus of the inaugural meeting of the Limerick Migrant Integration Forum that took place in November 2023
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% of Limerick residents born outside of Ireland. That exceeds the national average of 15%. These diverse cultural backgrounds are an invaluable asset to Limerick City and County. Let us embrace the strength that lies in our diversity.”
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. 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.”
Local Community Development Committee Chief Officer at Limerick City and County Council, Seamus O’Connor commented:
“Limerick City and County Council in conjunction with Doras is delighted to support members of the migrant communities to establish the Limerick Migrant Integration Forum. This Forum will provide an opportunity for all members to engage with various stakeholders in relation to policy development and other issues for the betterment of Limerick as whole.”
Objectives of the Limerick Migrant Integration Forum Include:
- Giving a structured voice to migrant communities.
- Facilitating two-way communication and information exchange between local agencies and new communities.
- Providing opportunities for migrant communities to influence local policy development.
- Encouraging interaction, cooperation, and information exchange among different communities.
- Addressing barriers, challenges, and proposing solutions for issues affecting migrant communities.
- Creating a platform for learning, support, and personal experiences.
The Forum boasts over 40 members from 20 diverse backgrounds, each contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of Limerick.
The logo, designed by Limerick Migrant Integration Forum member, Israel Lopez Morales, symbolizes unity among individuals from diverse nationalities around the world. The circle represents our planet, and within it, you can observe four icons of people that simultaneously form a sharing symbol. Their figures appear to intertwine with hands joined in the shape of a heart. From another perspective, it also bears a resemblance to a clover, which is a symbol of Ireland, the place of origin of this forum.
