An Investigation Into Claims of Employment Discrimination Between Black Immigrants & Native Workers In The Irish Labour Market: An Empirical Analysis

Abstract

Black immigrants in Ireland have been demonstrated to have more difficulties in the labor market and have higher unemployment rates than native workers. The labor market outcomes for various classes of non-Irish nationals varies significantly. The title of this thesis is an investigation into the claims of employment discrimination between black immigrants and native workers in the Irish labour market. In particular, the focus is on White Irish, Black Irish, Black Immigrants and Hiring Managers. The study was guided by two objectives. First, the research investigates the level of employment discrimination among black immigrants and native workers. Second, the research examines the factors associated with employment discrimination among black immigrants and native workers: Credentials, Occupational sector, Recruitment Selection and Nationality. This study takes the form of a qualitative research approach. The semi-structured interview was used as the primary data gathering instrument. The interviews were conducted with 11 participants which comprised of three White Irish, three Black Irish, three Black immigrants and two Hiring Manager. The research investigated their educational and professional backgrounds, present employment, qualification recognition, and job satisfaction. Data was analysed using the Nvivo and constant comparative method and the themes were based on the research objectives. This study extends the current knowledge base by revealing that Black immigrants experience a higher level of employment discrimination when compared with the white Irish native colleagues. Despite being Irish citizens, black Irish employees experienced similar levels of employment discrimination to their black immigrant colleagues. The study also found that Black employees are disproportionately not employed in roles corresponding to their qualifications and suffer occupational disadvantaged as they are less likely to hold top positions. The study concludes that the recruitment experience is largely positive for native workers, while black immigrants have a predominantly negative outlook. The study recommends that the government should ensure effective enforcement of discrimination legislation. All employers should adopt guidelines to ensure that their hiring processes are not discriminatory. In addition, there should be an awareness of the recognition of the foreign qualifications.