The Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI) commissioned Ireland Thinks to carry out the independent poll on migration-related issues in July.

In particular, 64 per cent agreed that migrants should be welcomed, compared to 18 per cent who disagreed.

On work, 82 per cent of people agreed that Irish companies should continue to be able to recruit people from outside the EU to work in sectors with skills or labour shortages, compared to 11 per cent who disagreed.

The poll also found significant public support for more progressive policies for those migrating to Ireland when it comes to issues such as family reunion rights, registration fees, employment permits and regularisation of those who become undocumented.

Neil Bruton, campaigns manager with MRCI, said: “When people come to Ireland to work they face many challenges. Challenges like being separated from their families for years on end, facing poor working conditions and high rates of exploitation.

“On top of that they face high immigration fees that leave them struggling to make ends meet.”

He added: “This poll shows that people in Ireland understand better than most the challenges people face when they move. People clearly support progressive policy changes that address the persistent challenges people face when moving to Ireland to make a better life.”