Inward labour mobility in the Irish health- and social-care sector

In an effort to understand the factors that impinge on labour mobility in the health- and social-care sector in Ireland, an exploratory study was undertaken. This study involved key organizational stakeholders and individual practitioners in the health- and social-care environment. A qualitative design using purposive sampling was employed, involving face-to-face and telephone, semi-structured interviews. Four interviews were undertaken with representatives from the Irish Nurses' Organization, the Health Services Executive, the Department of Health and Children, and the Association of Social Workers. Interviews were also undertaken with five health-care professionals who had relocated to Ireland. Notes were taken during all the interviews, and respondents were then sent copies of the transcripts to verify accuracy. Data analysis was guided by Burnard's (1991) framework. The data were analysed according to emerging categories and subcategories. Data emerged in relation to reasons for work mobility, the factors that support mobility and the factors that inhibit it. The reasons for moving to Ireland were mostly personal, professional or economic. In addition, factors facilitating movement included having established contacts in the country, organizational support and the attractiveness of educational structures. Challenges included the recruitment process itself, organizational support structures, professional recognition, language barriers and social integration. The findings are discussed in terms of health and social policy.