Nicolae The Builder

In 2006, when Nicolae could not find a job in his home country of Moldova, he packed up his car and drove to Ireland to seek work opportunities. When he arrived, he began working in a restaurant. “I liked very much everything, especially the people,” he explained. He rented an apartment and lived in Dublin for three years, but did not have a work permit. After the economic crisis began, he lost his job and could not find another.

Nicolae approached IOM for help in getting back to Moldova, as he was worried about his lack of travel documents. IOM approached the Irish government on his behalf and procured travel papers to ensure Nicolae could exit the country. Nicolae also received housing assistance while he waited. He learned about the reintegration grant and decided to apply after he returned. He used the money to begin working as an independent builder. Nicolae is now saving money to open his own orchard in a few years.

Nicolae hopes one day to apply for a permit to work in Ireland again, but is hopeful that he can make a future in Moldova.