Polish people in Ireand - 25 years of emmigration.

#Poles in Ireland – 25 years of emigration: a history.

Contemporary situation and interesting facts

Poles today constitute the largest national minority in Ireland, although just a quarter of a century ago the Polish community on the Emerald Isle was almost non-existent. Poland's entry into the European Union in 2004 initiated a massive wave of economic emigration to Ireland, drastically changing the country's demographic landscape. Below we present the history of Polish emigration to Ireland, describe the current situation of the Polish community, analyze the causes of this phenomenon, and present statistical data showing the changing numbers of Poles in Ireland. Additionally, we discuss Polish companies in Ireland, Polish shops and services present in everyday life, institutions supporting our compatriots, as well as a handful of interesting facts and lesser-known facts related to Poles on the Emerald Isle. History of Polish emigration to Ireland

History of emigration

The history of Polish emigration to Ireland dates back only to recent decades – previously, this phenomenon was marginal. Even in the 1970s, the Polish community on the island numbered only a few hundred people. In 1979, during Pope John Paul II's visit to Ireland, the Irish-Polish Society was established – the first organization promoting cultural cooperation between our countries. At the end of the 20th century, still only a few hundred Poles lived in Ireland, and the Polish community did not play a significant role. The situation began to change gradually after 1989, but the real breakthrough came only after 2004. On May 1, 2004, Poland joined the European Union, which coincided with a period of dynamic economic growth in Ireland (the so-called Celtic Tiger). Ireland, along with the United Kingdom and Sweden, was among the first EU countries to fully open their labor markets to citizens of new member states immediately in 2004. For Poles, this meant the possibility of legal work in Ireland without permits – a factor that triggered a massive influx of economic emigrants. The 2006 census already recorded 63,276 Poles in Ireland, while just a few years earlier this number was almost zero. In the following years, the migration wave grew – Poles quickly became the largest group of immigrants in Ireland. The emigration boom peaked just before the 2008 global financial crisis. It was estimated at that time that the actual number of Poles in Ireland could reach as many as 200,000 people (although official census data was lower). Between 2004 and 2007, tens of thousands of our compatriots came to the Emerald Isle "for bread." Irish offices issued record numbers of PPS numbers (Personal Public Service) – the equivalent of our PESEL – for newly arrived Poles. Between 2003 and 2010, over 325,000 PPS numbers were issued to Poles, which illustrates the scale of the influx (it is worth remembering, however, that not all these migrants remained in the country permanently). Polish emigration was largely economic and short-term – many newcomers planned to work for a few years, save money, and return to Poland. After 2008, migration dynamics weakened. The global financial crisis hit the Irish economy hard, causing unemployment to rise and wages to fall. As a result, some Poles began to leave Ireland – according to 2009 research, as many as 66,000 Poles declared their intention to leave Ireland within a year. Migration entered a new phase: stabilization and slow return migration. Some moved to other countries (e.g., to the United Kingdom before Brexit), while others decided to return to their homeland, especially as the economic situation in Poland improved. Nevertheless, the post-accession wave from 2004-2007 permanently changed the social structure of Ireland, introducing a large Polish diaspora.

Poles in Ireland today – the situation of the community

Twenty years after Poland's entry into the EU, the Polish community has become an integral part of Irish society. According to the latest 2022 census, there are 93,680 Polish citizens in Ireland. Poles remain the largest group of foreigners in the country – accounting for about 15% of the population of all foreigners. This translates to 1.8-2% of the entire population of Ireland, which means that approximately one in fifty residents of Ireland has Polish citizenship. Poles outnumber other minorities, such as citizens of the United Kingdom, India, Romania, or Lithuania. Moreover, this statistic should be supplemented with thousands more people of Polish origin who have acquired Irish citizenship or were born on the island. In 2022, over 17,000 people with dual Polish-Irish citizenship were recorded (including about 8,600 born in Ireland) – this is a clear sign that some Poles have settled permanently, are starting families, and are raising a new generation of "Polirish" (Polish-Irish). The socio-professional structure of Poles in Ireland has evolved over the years. While the first wave of emigrants after 2004 mainly took physical jobs (in construction, hospitality, gastronomy, agriculture, or seasonal work), currently Poles are present in all sectors of the economy. In Irish companies, one can meet Polish engineers, IT specialists, doctors, teachers, as well as numerous specialists in modern technology and digital services industries. Irish Minister of State Dara Calleary emphasized that Poles have settled in every sector of the economy and social life and contribute to every area of the country's life. In sectors such as high-tech construction, IT, or finance, more and more young, qualified Poles are working who came to the island already with good education or graduated from local universities. Still, many of our compatriots are also employed in services, trade, logistics, or healthcare – they constitute an important part of the workforce, often filling gaps in the labor market. Poles are integrating with Irish society while maintaining their own identity. The Polish language has become a permanent element of Ireland's linguistic landscape – according to the 2016 census, about 119,500 people used Polish at home, making it the most commonly used foreign language in Ireland (and de facto the second most widely used language after English). For comparison, the number of people who use the Irish language (Gaelic) on a daily basis is much smaller. Polish can be heard on the streets of Dublin, Cork, or Limerick, and bilingual Polish-English signs and notices are not uncommon. In Irish stores (e.g., Tesco or Lidl chains), Polish food products are easy to find, and Polish cuisine dishes (pierogi, bigos) have also become known to native Irish people. Annual events promoting Polish-Irish friendship also take place – an example was the Poland-Éire Festival, organized since 2015 at the initiative of the Polish Embassy and Irish local authorities, during which common relations were celebrated through cultural and sporting events. Despite initial concerns from some of Irish society about the mass influx of immigrants from Central and Eastern Europe (even a dozen or so years ago, this topic sparked discussions about the impact on the labor market or the social system), Poles have gained recognition through hard work and entrepreneurship. Many Irish people appreciate the contribution of Polish workers – from a visible presence in the construction industry (it was Polish specialists who helped realize the housing boom of the Celtic Tiger period) to highly qualified specialists fueling technology companies in Dublin. Over time, cultural barriers decreased. Poles and Irish people connect through common values, such as strong family ties or Catholic tradition (both nations are predominantly Roman Catholic). In many Irish parishes, Holy Masses are regularly celebrated in Polish, which testifies to the adaptation of local institutions to the needs of our community. Generally speaking, the Polish diaspora has settled in Ireland – "we are at home", as some of our compatriots state after years of living on the island, co-creating its contemporary image.

Reasons for Polish emigration to Ireland

The reasons for the mass emigration of Poles to Ireland in the last 25 years are complex and include economic, social, and political factors. The most important ones are:

Economic – The main motive for departure was the economic differences between Poland and Ireland at the beginning of the 21st century. In the 1990s and early 2000s, Poland struggled with high unemployment (reaching around 20% in 2004) and low wages, while Ireland was experiencing economic prosperity. Significantly higher earnings in the Irish labor market attracted Poles tempted by the prospect of improving their well-being. During the "Celtic tiger" period, the demand for workers in Ireland grew, especially in construction, services, and agriculture – Poles filled these gaps, often taking jobs below their qualifications but better paid than in their home country. The exchange rate of the zloty to the euro and lower costs of living in Poland meant that even short-term work in Ireland allowed for saving significant amounts (e.g., students could earn enough during the holidays to support themselves for a whole year in Poland). For many young people, this was a chance for a financial start, saving for an apartment or their own business after returning. Social and cultural – The opening of EU borders also created new opportunities for personal development. Young Poles went abroad not only "for bread" but also for new experiences, to learn English, and to experience a different culture. Ireland became attractive also due to the lack of visa barriers and a relatively simple procedure for taking up employment (a PPS number and a bank account were sufficient). Poles heard about the hospitality of the Irish, and the commonality of Western culture and Catholic religion facilitated acclimatization. Many treated the trip as an adventure for a few years, postponing the decision to return – often, in fact, they planned temporary emigration, which turned into permanent settlement. The existing migration network was also significant – over time, word of mouth and Polish community contacts made it easier for more people to leave (the first emigrants brought their friends and families, helped find jobs or housing). Low-cost airline flights (e.g., Ryanair) launched after 2004 between Poland and Ireland also facilitated migration, reducing travel costs and enabling frequent returns or visits. Political and institutional – The decisive impulse was May 1, 2004, when Poland, along with 9 other countries, joined the European Union. The freedom of movement of people guaranteed by EU treaties opened previously closed doors – Poles gained the right to legally work and settle in other EU countries. Ireland did not introduce transitional periods in access to the labor market, which distinguished it from, for example, Germany or France, which temporarily restricted the employment of citizens from new countries. As a result, it was the United Kingdom and Ireland that took on the bulk of the migration wave immediately after accession. The Irish government's decision to open the labor market from the day of EU enlargement was dictated, among other things, by the needs of the economy – there was a shortage of labor with dynamic growth. Polish migrants were therefore welcomed by employers, and information campaigns (in Polish) about living and working in Ireland appeared in the media. On the Polish side, the stabilization of democracy and international relations was also an encouraging factor: after years of communism and difficult transformation, EU membership gave a sense of belonging to the Western community, which added courage to leave. In subsequent years, new political stimuli also emerged, encouraging emigration or staying in emigration – e.g., Brexit (the United Kingdom's exit from the EU) caused some Poles from the UK to move to Ireland to continue enjoying EU freedom, and on the other hand, improvements in Poland (e.g., social programs, decreasing unemployment) convinced a certain group to return.

It is worth noting that the causes of emigration evolved over time. While purely economic motives dominated immediately after 2004, a decade later, family factors (joining relatives already settled on the island) or the desire to improve quality of life (not only financial, but also, for example, using better infrastructure or a friendly environment) played an increasingly important role. High costs of living in Ireland (especially housing) in recent years have begun to prompt some Poles to return – some estimate that after years of working abroad, they can achieve a comparable standard of living in Poland. Therefore, since around 2016, we have observed a reversal of the trend – more Poles are leaving Ireland than arriving, which is the result of, among other things, the improvement of the situation in Poland and migration satiety after years of departure boom. The changing number of Poles in Ireland The size of the Polish community in Ireland in successive censuses (2002-2022). A sharp increase after 2004, stabilization around 2011-2016, and a decline after 2016 are visible. (Data source: Central Statistics Office Ireland) The number of Poles in Ireland over the last two decades has undergone dynamic changes, which is clearly visible in the statistical data. Before 2004, the Polish diaspora was rudimentary – estimates speak of only a few hundred Poles living in Ireland at the threshold of the 21st century. After accession to the EU, a migratory explosion occurred: the 2006 census recorded about 63,000 people of Polish origin, while five years earlier there were probably no more than 1-2 thousand. The 2011 census already showed 122,585 Poles living on the island – this is almost a doubling of the population within 5 years (an increase of 93.7% compared to 2006). From that moment, the Polish community in Ireland reached its highest level – about 120-122 thousand people – which was maintained for the next few years. The 2016 census confirmed a size of 122,515 (practically unchanged compared to 2011), which suggests that migration took on a settlement form, stabilizing the size of the community. After 2016, however, a new trend emerged – a gradual decrease in the number of Poles in Ireland. The 2022 census showed that the population of Polish citizens had decreased to 93,680 people. This is 24% less than five years earlier, which means a loss of almost 29 thousand people. This decrease largely results from return migration – some Poles decided to leave Ireland permanently and return to their homeland or move to other countries. Official data does not include Poles who in the meantime accepted Irish citizenship, so the real decrease in immigrants of Polish origin is slightly smaller (about 21 thousand fewer people, taking into account naturalized citizens). Despite the decrease, Poles maintain the position of the largest minority in Ireland – outnumbering, among others, immigrants from the United Kingdom or other EU countries. Over the years, migration trends were therefore as follows: rapid growth 2004-2008, peak around 2011, stabilization 2011-2016, and decline after 2016. This movement is a natural consequence of the migration cycle – after the initial wave, there is an equalization, and then some people return or settle permanently, changing status (e.g., to citizens of the country of settlement). In the case of Ireland, factors such as the economic situation (crisis 2008, then boom and again slowdown during the pandemic), the situation in Poland (improvement in wages, social programs), and Brexit influenced Poles' migration decisions. Despite the decrease in numbers, the Polish diaspora in Ireland remains significant and all indications are that it has permanently entered the demographic landscape of the country.

Polish companies in Ireland

Poles in Ireland have become known not only as employees but also as entrepreneurs. Polish companies in Ireland operate in many industries, from retail to construction services and modern technologies. The Polish community on the Emerald Isle is characterized by a high entrepreneurship coefficient – many immigrants from Poland, after gaining experience, decided to start their own business. Polish sole proprietorships (so-called self-employed) and companies established by our compatriots were dynamically created. Today, several thousand companies run by Poles operate in Ireland – both tiny, local businesses and larger enterprises serving not only the Polish community but also Irish people in general. Sectors in which Polish entrepreneurs particularly stand out include: construction and renovations (many construction teams and finishing companies established by Polish specialists), transport and logistics (e.g., courier, transportation, or forwarding companies run by Poles), cleaning and order services, care and medical services (Polish dental offices, physiotherapists), as well as gastronomy and trade. An example of the success of a Polish community business is the bakery industry – Polish bakeries have gained recognition from Irish consumers. One of them, founded by three brothers from Poland (MMM Family Bakery), started operations in 2006, and already in 2008 established cooperation with the Lidl chain in Ireland, supplying Polish bread to supermarkets. At its peak, it employed 90 people and won awards in bakery competitions, which shows that Polish companies can compete in a demanding market. Other Polish businesses, such as grocery stores, restaurants, or service companies, also successfully serve not only compatriots but also local customers, building a bridge between both cultures. It is worth emphasizing that Polish companies in Ireland have over time become an important part of the local economy. Even regular business conferences are organized for Polish entrepreneurs, serving to exchange experiences and promote company development. Polish businessmen associate in networking groups (formal and informal), supporting each other with knowledge about the Irish market. Slogans like "Support your own" have gained popularity – the Polish community readily uses services and products offered by compatriots, which drives the development of these companies. In Dublin and other cities, one can find Polish accounting offices, real estate agencies, hairdressing and beauty salons, car workshops, and even technological startups founded by talented programmers from Poland. From micro-enterprises to medium-sized companies – Polish business in emigration has matured and today constitutes a positive example of economic integration. Irish partners increasingly perceive Polish entrepreneurs as reliable and innovative, which further strengthens the position of the Polish community in the country.

Polish shops and services in Ireland

One of the most visible manifestations of Polish presence in Ireland is the development of Polish shops and service points. After 2004, with the growth of the Polish community, there was a demand for Polish products – food, cosmetics, press – everything that emigrants missed. The response was the opening of Polish grocery stores (so-called Polish delicatessens), which import goods from Poland. Today, hundreds of Polish shops operate throughout Ireland, both independent and associated in a network. The largest of them is the Polonez chain of stores, which already has about 30 supermarkets in Ireland (and several in Northern Ireland). The first Polonez store was established in 2003 in Naas, and others were opened in cities where Poles settled. Other brands, such as "Wisła", "Krakus", or "Mila", also run chains of delicatessens with Polish food scattered throughout Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and smaller towns. The assortment of such shops satisfies nostalgia for the taste of home – one can buy Polish cold cuts, dairy products (cheeses, cottage cheese), bread, pickles, sweets (e.g., Ptasie Mleczko, Prince Polo), and even seasonal products like Christmas wafers or Easter palms. Polish shops in Ireland have become not only places for shopping but also for meetings – often notices in Polish hang on bulletin boards, and salespeople offer advice to newly arrived emigrants. Alongside grocery delicatessens, other services dedicated to Poles have also developed. In larger cities, there are Polish medical clinics and dentists, where one can get advice in their native language. Polish doctors and dentists, who have qualifications in Ireland, open offices addressed to compatriots, which helps break down the language barrier in such a sensitive field as health. Similarly, Polish lawyers and advisors help compatriots in legal or tax matters, explaining the intricacies of a foreign system. Beauty salons run by Polish women enjoy a good reputation – Polish hairdressers, beauticians, and nail stylists have gained a large clientele not only among Polish women but also Irish women, being famous for their professionalism. In Dublin, one can also find Polish restaurants and cafes, serving pierogi, stuffed cabbage, or sour rye soup – these places are visited by both our compatriots, craving home flavors, and Irish people curious about Polish cuisine. One cannot overlook the role that Polish entrepreneurship has played in the food sector for the overall market. Polish products have penetrated the mainstream: many local supermarkets have introduced shelves with Polish articles (e.g., pickled cucumbers, beetroot, Żywiec beer, or Tyskie). The Irish have come to like some of our specialties – for example, Polish bread is considered tastier than traditional toast bread, and cold cuts or sausages find admirers among the island's residents. Polish food companies in emigration have become a trade bridge: wholesalers run by our compatriots supply not only Polish shops but also Irish customers. In this way, a whole economic ecosystem was created - from the importer, through the Polish wholesaler, to the retail store - which strengthens the Polish economic presence in Ireland. Poles in Ireland have come a long way from a handful of unknown immigrants to an important and visible community that enriches the country economically, culturally, and demographically. The last 25 years have been a period of intense changes – from the emigration boom after accession in 2004 to the gradual rooting of the Polish community in Irish reality. Today, Polish shops, companies, and organizations are a permanent element of the landscape, and the Polish diaspora is a bridge connecting two geographically distant but increasingly close nations. As data and people's stories show, this emigration had multidimensional effects: for Poles themselves, it became an opportunity for a better life and new experiences, while for Ireland – an injection of energy from a young workforce and cultural diversity. It can be boldly said that Ireland has become a second home for many Poles, and at the same time, a piece of Poland has permanently settled in the heart of the Emerald Isle. Sources: Data from the Irish statistical office CSO, censuses (2006-2022), reports and studies (Studia BAS), as well as information from Polish community media and statements from representatives of the Irish government were used. The cited historical curiosities come from archival materials and historical sources. All statistics and facts have been verified based on reliable sources, which guarantees the reliability of the presented information. Polish community in Ireland – Wikipedia, free encyclopedia https://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polonia_w_Irlandii European labor markets for Poles - Forsal.pl https://forsal.pl/artykuly/313725,europejskie-rynki-pracy-dla-polakow.html The number of Poles has decreased significantly, almost 21,000 left within six years – Destination Ireland https://kierunekirlandia.eu/artykul/8336/a- Poles have settled in the Irish economy - TVN24 Business https://tvn24.pl/biznes/ze-swiata/polacy-zadomowili-sie-w-irlandzkiej-gospodarce-st "Everything Starts with Attitudes": Exploring Language Ideologies ... https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15348458.2025.2485455?src=exp-la A Pole has been living in Ireland for 20 years. "I can't wait to return. This is not life" – News https://wiadomosci.onet.pl/krakow/polak-od-20-lat-mieszka-w-irlandii-nie-moge-doczekac-sie-powrotu-to-nie-zycie/jzttpp One company, three brothers, three hundred points in Ireland - interview with Maciek Breadski http://irlandia.ie/biznes/polonia-ie/1639-jedna-firma-trzech-braci-trzysta-punktow-w-irlandii-wywiad-z-mackiem-breadskim.html Do the Irish buy Polish sweets? - rp.pl - PRO https://pro.rp.pl/eksport/art36911261-irlandia-lubi-polskie-slodycze-mozemy-ich-jednak-sprzedawac-tam-wiecej-eksport-handel-zagraniczny Polonez - a network of stores with Polish food is developing in Ireland [GALLERY] https://www.wiadomoscihandlowe.pl/tylko-w-naszym-portalu/polonez-siec-sklepow-z-polska-zywnoscia-rozwija-sie-w-irlandii-galeria- Paweł E. Strzelecki - hero of Ireland commemorated in Clifden https://mtkosciuszko.org.au/polski/clifden-tablica.htm The first Polish councillor in Ireland? – Forum Polonia – Ireland https://forumpolonia.org/pierwszy-polski-radny-w-irlandii/