The growing number of migrants working and residing in rural communities right across Northern Ireland is viewed in some quarters as a problem but this research sought the explore the relationships that did, did not or could exist as well as establishing the potential benefits that this growing migrant population could bring with regards to the future sustainability of rural communities right across Northern Ireland.
The research was completed in conjunction with key partners including STEP (South Tyrone Empowerment Programme), CWSAN (Cookstown and Western Shores Area Network) and COSTA (Community Organisations of South Tyrone and Areas). The report which has emerged from the research entitled 'To be more than a familiar stranger:
The challenge for rural sustainability' sets out the main findings including the fact that there is very little interaction between the migrant and local population outside of work and the school environment.
Furthermore the report highlights the fact that many people, both local and migrant would welcome more opportunities for wider interaction and community integration but are unsure about how to make this happen effectively.
Commenting on the findings and the research project, Rural Community Network Chief Executive Officer, Michael Hughes revealed 'The completion of this research was challenging for both RCN and our research partners.
The work has seen new people involved, innovative consultation techniques and practices developed and new sustainable and transferable skills attained.' Michael continued 'Whilst the work was completed in Cookstown and Dungannon, it has application right across Northern Ireland. By choosing to work jointly with the migrant and local populations we have broken new ground and also highlighted the huge potential that exists within many of our rural communities which is in many instances being under utilised. RCN's ongoing challenge which extends to the wider community is to ensure that local and migrant populations are jointly supported to meet their full potential and in so doing ensure the future growth and sustainability of their rural communities.'
People interested in accessing the research report can view it online at www.ruralcommunitynetwork.org or can request a hard copy by contacting Rural Community Network on 028 8676 6670.