Why do the Irish love Vancouver?

ICYF, today’s Saint Patty’s Day! A day for green beer, mischief, and pinches if you’re not wearing green. That being said, one might have noticed that there seem to be a lot of Irish people in Vancouver, especially in the summer. After some digging, here are some of the reasons why the Irish might flock to Vancity:

Turns out, many of Vancouver’s Irish population get their start in Vancouver through the IEC Working Holiday work permit. The permit allows temporary employment authorizations through the International Mobility Program to youth from more than 30 nations, enabling them to lawfully reside and seek employment in Canada.

Science World lit up for St. Patrick's Day

These authorizations are effective for either 12 or 24 months, contingent upon the applicant's citizenship. The program also has various categories that hopeful applicants can choose from.

The criteria for eligibility include:

• Being a citizen from an eligible country 

• Must have a valid passport 

• Must have at least $2,500 CAD 

• Must be able to get health insurance

Perhaps a secondary reason that Vancouver has built a vibrant Irish community is the similarity between Vancouver and Ireland’s climate, with similarly mild temperatures and frequent gray skies. Of course, the lack of a language barrier makes Canada that much easier to adjust to.

Finally, many young Irish people also find temporary affordable housing at UBC, and it seems that word of the good times to be had has spread. Coming to Vancity for the summer has become a rite of passage for Irish young adults, who spend their days working and their evenings hitting the town. With its blend of work opportunities, cultural ease, and youthful spirit, it’s no surprise the Irish continue to flock to Canada’s West Coast.

The more you know, now go and buy your favourite Irish person a Guinness. Happy Saint Patty’s!