curious about something I read on a scotish document

[lisakd]

I am a Canadian coming over to work as a teacher in the next few months. As I was filling out an application form for the Teaching Council, I came across a section within the application asking me to state my ethnic origin (it was optional) This section was included in accordance with the Councils policy for equal opportunity, and simply for the purpose of monitoring this policy. I complied with the request and ticked off "white", but as I scanned down the list (which is recommended by the Comission for Racial Equality) I came across somthing that I'm not sure I understand. In fact, I am quite bewildered about it and am seeking some insight from anyone who wishes to respond.

These are some of the ethnic categories given:

White
Irish
Black -African
Black-Carribiean
Indian
Pakistani
Bangladeshi
Chinese...ect

Why is Irish in it's own separate category? Aren't Irish folk predominately white?

[Polwarth]

It presumably means Irish from Eire,who are obviously white, but are a distinct group of immigrants to the UK.

[lisakd]

Okay...I must be honest, I am still not quite clear on this. Feel free to enlighten me. Does this have anything to do with the Republic of Ireland not being part of the Commonwealth? As you may have guessed by now, politics is not my forte...?

[Polwarth]

It may in part be that. It is also that many Southern Irish have lived and worked in the UK quite freely - returning 'home' at various times in between lengthy visits here. There has always been a 'special relationship' between UK and Ireland (whether some of the natives of either country wishes to acknowledge this is another matter!)

Now that both Eire and UK are members of the EU, we welcome citizens of every country into our own, whether from Eire to UK or Eire to Belgium or UK to Dublin.

The 'fluidity' of Europe can be a minefield for foreigners!