The Directorate conducted the first round-table discussion of organizations, agencies and individuals on October 25.

On October 25, 2006, the Directorate conducted the first round-table discussion of organizations, agencies and individuals who are involved in immigration matters. It was decided to hold those meetings quarterly where pre-determined issues will be discussed each time. A committee was founded which has a mandate to suggest a theme for the next meeting.
This meeting was attended by representatives from the Intercultural Centre, the Icelandic Confederation of Labour, the Directorate of Labour, the Icelandic Red Cross, SA the Confederation of Employers, the Directorate of Health, the Multicultural Centre, Samfok, the City of Reykjavik, Home and School Association, Austurbæjarskóli, Social Services, the Association of Local Authorities, the Reykjavik Police and the Directorate of Immigration. Four immigrants were present at the meeting who related their experience of moving to a new country and starting a new life.
The Minister of Justice was also present and informed the meeting of ongoing changes in the law governing foreigners and the act on citizenship.
Those attending the meeting agreed that experience shows that instruction in Icelandic for immigrants must be improved, as the language is a key to Icelandic society. All agreed that it must be made easier for immigrants to learn the language. A discussion ensued on whether the Icelandic government should be more involved in this matter, e.g. to offer free instruction to immigrants. A need was identified for an information brochure for immigrants, containing information they need to be aware of to start a new life in a new country and the necessity to have this available in a few different languages. This information needs to contain the rights and obligations of those living in Iceland and available services. Three of the participants in the meeting are in the process of developing information brochures which might possibly be coordinated in some way.
The cultural differences of immigrants is noticeable and their background is diverse. As an example, schooling is not compulsory in all countries and therefore it is not a given that all immigrants know that all children in Iceland must attend school for a certain age period. The participants concerned pointed this out and the necessity of parents of immigrant children needing to get more involved in the school system and to get acquainted with what it has to offer.
It is clear that all participants have been involved in pioneering projects to inform and assist immigrants in a new country, but coordination in this field is urgently needed. All participants applauded this initiative and are looking forward to a bright future with cooperation as a goal.
The next meeting will be held at the Multicultural Centre in Ísafjörður and the committee will assist in the preparation.