This six-year program was created through legislation sponsored by U. S. Rep. James Walsh
of New York. It brings young people from Northern Ireland and the six border
counties of the Republic of Ireland to the United States through a non-immigrant work visa
to develop job skills and conflict resolution abilities in a diverse,
peaceful and
prosperous environment. Program participants then return home to contribute toward the
economic regeneration and the Irish peace process.
The first participants are expected to arrive In Faribault County in the Fall of the year
2000. The number will be based on local employer participation.
Irish Participants - As many as 12,000 selected participants between the ages of
18 and 35 will be allowed to enter the U.S., 4000 each year until 2002, and to work in the
country for up to three years. Applicants will be matched with an U.S. employer, given six
weeks of training in Ireland, given airfare to and from the U.S., one week of training
upon arrival into the U.S., financial assistance for the transition period, and one month
of pre-employment health insurance. The program includes a re-employment component that
will assist participants in finding jobs in their field back home.
U.S. Employers - Nine occupational sectors are identified below. Interested
employers may register on-line or inquire with the FCLRA at (507) 526-2130 or e-mail FCLRA.
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Customer Service
- Information and Communication Technology
- Pharmaceuticals
- Engineering
- Sales, Marketing and Promotion
- Agriculture/Horticulture Diversification
- Food Processing
- Furniture
Host Families - An opportunity for cultural interaction. Purpose is to
befriend the participant and assist with the transition into the residential, social and
work environments.
Additional Information - Walsh
Visa Program |
