Emil's Construction Work

Emil came from Moldova to Ireland in 2007 with the hopes that he would find better job opportunities that would allow him to support his family. His wife and children stayed in Moldova during the three years that he worked abroad. As an irregular migrant, Emil found it increasingly difficult to hold a steady job in Ireland. He began struggling to secure his own housing and food, and worried for his future. He wanted to return to Moldova, but was afraid to reveal himself as irregular to the authorities in Ireland.

One day, Emil came across an IOM information pamphlet about assisted voluntary return. He made an appointment to discuss the programme with staff in Dublin. They told him that he could be assisted in returning to Moldova, both in terms of travel costs and in terms of organizing his travel documents. Emil also learned that he could apply for reintegration assistance to help him start his own business in Moldova.

After he returned, Emil applied immediately for the reintegration grant. He used the fund to purchase materials to work as a builder. After six months, he said it was possible that he could support his family with the income from construction. Emil said he plans to stay in Moldova again permanently. When asked what his future plans were, he answered, “To raise my children.”