Why Indian Nurses Are Leaving Ireland

A moving open letter from an Indian nurse residing in Ireland, initially posted on Reddit, has gained significant attention, prompting a public discussion about the experiences of migrant healthcare professionals in Ireland. The letter, titled “Why We’re Leaving Ireland,” reflects the disappointment experienced by numerous Indian workers who once viewed Ireland as a promising destination, now anxious about their families’ safety.

The unnamed writer, representing himself, his wife, and the larger Indian community, expresses deep concern over the increasing racism and hostility they’re encountering. He states that they came to Ireland to contribute to healthcare, yet now fear for their safety while returning home after shifts. The defining moment for him was observing a group of Irish teenagers harassing an eight-year-old Indian girl “simply because she appeared different.”

Challenges Faced by Indian Healthcare Workers

The nurse, along with many others, arrived in Ireland to support its crucial healthcare system. Numerous professionals contributed tirelessly during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, often facing significant stress and personal sacrifices. The writer mentions, “We missed important family events back home to remain here and fulfil our responsibilities. We adhered to all regulations and paid our taxes… We thought this was a nation of compassion.”

However, that perception, he argues, is rapidly diminishing. The nurse indicates that numerous Indian nurses within his network are actively contemplating leaving Ireland, with some exploring opportunities in Australia or planning a return to India. He articulates, “If we leave, it’s not due to a lack of affection for this country. It’s because this country has ceased to show love towards us.”

Recent Incidents Raise Concerns

The letter arrives amid multiple reports of racially charged attacks against Indians and other South Asian immigrants in Ireland. In recent months, local media outlets and community organisations have recorded cases of verbal abuse, physical confrontations, and discriminatory treatment — both in public spaces and institutions.

In June, an Indian student was the victim of an assault in Dublin, characterised by advocacy groups as racially motivated. July saw a disturbing viral clip depicting another Indian man being pursued by a group of young people, while onlookers did not intervene.

Although authorities claim these incidents are not widespread, they are being increasingly highlighted by the Indian diaspora, particularly on platforms like Reddit, where anonymous submissions reveal the anxieties and grievances of immigrant life in Europe.

Demands for Change

This viral post has incited hundreds of reactions from users across Ireland and internationally. Many Irish individuals expressed empathy and denounced the rise in xenophobia, while others urged the Irish government to take action to alleviate the growing unease within migrant communities.

Healthcare unions and civil rights organisations are now advocating for the government to implement more robust measures to ensure the safety and dignity of immigrant workers on the frontlines.

As the anonymous nurse poignantly remarked in his closing thoughts: “We are not here to create divisions. We arrived because we believed Ireland was a nation that valued all individuals. Please help us see that belief realised.”