A new report from UCC has found that aspects of immigration policy, in particular the Irish-born children scheme, is separating thousands of families and leading them into disadvantage.
The report recommends future legislation provides for family reunification for all those legally resident in the State.
It is based on interviews with 38 migrant families of Irish citizen children who have residency under the Irish-Born Children Scheme (IBCScheme), which was put in place in 2005.
The authors say the scheme, which grants parents of Irish citizen children temporary residency, makes their status insecure, unclear and deprives them of reunification with their families.
Under the scheme, applicants must formally declare that their status does not give rise to any 'legitimate expectation' of family reunification.
This declaration is at the heart of the problem, the authors argue, as it creates a situation where parents must act as single parents and in many cases results in children growing up without a parent, brother or sister.
Many of those living in Ireland under the scheme are well-qualified but are channelled into low-paid jobs.
Without family supports, the individuals rely on childcare and crèches, leading to more expense.
The report finds Government policy is inconsistent and lacks clarity.
The report, Looking Forward, Looking Back - Experiences of Irish Citizen Child Families, was complied by Dr Liam Coakley and Dr Claire Healy at University College Cork.
