Latest research from the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) revealed the migrant labour market was greatly affected by the pandemic and its health measures, compared to other groups of workers.

The research finds while the employment rate among migrant workers was above that of Irish-born workers, 77 per cent and 72 per cent respectively, the unemployment rate sharply increased for migrant workers from 5.8 per cent to 9.1 per cent in the first year of Covid.

Another concerning discovery of the report finds migrants to be at a greater risk of poverty, while also facing more barriers in accessing affordable housing.

The report's lead author Dr Frances McGinnity said "This report shows that migrants in Ireland have employment rates and levels of education that exceed those of the Irish-born population, with certain groups such as African migrants showing particular progress,"

"Nevertheless, Ireland faces substantial challenges in integrating those that come to live here, particularly in areas that are currently under substantial pressure," she said.

Dr McGinnity also highlighted the particular challenges faced in the area of housing, stating the group was "disproportionately concentrated in private rented accommodation and facing affordability challenges".

"Measures to address major current challenges in the Irish housing market are urgently needed to improve this situation," she added.

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