Programme Costs
[2009 prices]
| 4 Weeks |
£1328 |
| 8 Weeks |
£1566 |
| 12 Weeks |
£1809 |
Included in the cost of the programme:
- Information, preparation and support from the EIL UK office, including an interview prior to acceptance on the programme.
- Placement in a volunteer work project
- Accommodation and food for the duration of your stay (usually with a local host family)
- Support and problem solving from a mentor within the project and EIL
- Arrival orientation, including on night’s accommodation
- Public transport from the orientation to the voluntary work project
- Public transport to airport on departure
NOT included in the cost of the programme:
- International transportation
- Transport to Cork on arrival
- Personal spending money
- Medical and accident insurance
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The popular image of Ireland until recently was of a rural country with close knit communities and a slow pace of life.
In the 1990’s an economic boom (known as the Celtic tiger) transformed Ireland, modernising the country and attitudes with it. Ireland became an attractive destination for multi-national corporations and is home to some of the leading technological and pharmaceutical companies. While the standard of living has risen considerably, many challenges have been created in its wake.
Issues Facing Society
Wealth in Ireland is very unevenly divided, and many marginalised groups are as needy as ever. Those with special needs, young people at risk, and older people in Ireland are finding difficulty meeting their needs in the Ireland of today. The country now boasts a multi-cultural society, but in reality there is little inter-culturalism or understanding between our new arrivals and the general population. Our environment is under threat from over development, and there is rising conflict between those wishing to progress the economic boom and infrastructure and those wishing to preserve Ireland ’s unique natural and cultural heritage.
Volunteer Organisations
Many of the organisations that act as advocates for the marginalised require volunteers to realise their important work. Voluntary and non-governmental organisations have found that with the economic boom people seem less inclined to volunteer.
Programme Overview
Arrival and Orientation - Orientation will take place upon arrival in Cork. If you are flying in to Cork airport, you will be collected at the airport. Orientation will take place at the EIL office, covering issues such as health and safety, Irish culture and society, and voluntary work. Overnight accommodation will be provided in Cork, and the following day you will travel to your host community to begin your voluntary work placement.
Accomodation - Accommodation is generally with a local host family near the project location. Staying with a host family allows you to integrate quickly into the local community, to make contacts, and to learn about the Irish way of life. Your host family will provide your meals for the duration of your stay.
In some cases, it may be possible for accommodation to be provided at the project site, in which case the cost of the programme will be reduced. However, there are a very limited number of these placements. If you wish to be considered for one of these placements, please indicate it on your application form.
Volunteer Programme - By choosing to volunteer in Ireland with EIL you will make an immeasurable contribution to the efforts of projects aiming to tackle some of the most critical issues facing Ireland at this time. As a volunteer you will work in a project with local staff and other volunteers and will live with a host family. You will learn about Irish culture and way of life, and will also have some fun!
EIL Ireland works mainly with organisations in the following areas:
- Assisting those with disabilities
- Environmental and conservation projects
- Assisting the homeless
- Arts, Theatre and Children’s projects
Workplace Conditions - Workplace conditions vary depending on the project. Volunteers work a maximum of 40 hours per week, with 2 days off. Generally there will be other volunteers and staff working with you, and there will be a designated mentor at the project.
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Ireland Fact File
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