Vol. 502 No. 4
56 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when she will introduce amending legislation with regard to the rights of non-nationals to seek and retain work; the plans, if any, she has to make permits available to employers to fill specific positions or to persons seeking employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8313/99]
I have recently submitted proposals to Government in relation to a number of issues relating to work permits, including a proposal to place the existing work permit system on a more comprehensive and transparent statutory basis. These proposals are under consideration by Government. In the meantime, my Department will continue to issue work permits to employers to fill specific positions where the relevant skills or expertise are not readily available within the existing workforce.
