A new report looking at the experiences of Polish migrants in Ireland has pointed to language difficulties and exploitation in the workplace as the main issues of concern.
The study, 'Polish Migrant Workers in Ireland', is the first in a series from the National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism, looking at the problems that immigrant communities face in Ireland.
All the research was conducted in the migrants' native language, so it is hoped that the reports give a true account of their concerns.
The study showed that the Polish community felt racism, and in particular negative stereotyping, was a big issue.
There were also questions about some employers paying wages below the minimum level and an associated fear of job losses if complaints were made.
The report said many migrants were unable to defend their rights in the workplace due to problems with the English language.
The NCCRI said more needed to be done to provide language tuition to migrants.
It said the cost of those classes was beyond the reach of many in low-paid employment.
