Gabriel and his wife, Delia, came to Ireland in 2006, hoping to find a better life. They both found work, Gabriel in construction and Delia in a variety of short-term jobs. After they had been in Ireland for three years, Delia had a baby and was unable to work. Gabriel also started to find that he could not get work as easily. They wanted to return to Moldova to provide more security for their family.

Delia and Gabriel applied for IOM Ireland’s VARRP and returned to Moldova in 2010. They lived with family until they were able to find their own place. Gabriel immediately applied for the reintegration grant to purchase building materials. He was then able to find work as an independent contractor, for building and tiling jobs in private homes and office buildings.

Gabriel and Delia spoke with IOM staff six months after they returned. They were having trouble adjusting to life in Moldova, and still struggling financially. Although Gabriel is able to work as a builder, he still faces a lot of competition for his services. They hope to emigrate again, but felt it was the right decision to return to Moldova.

 

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