Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 18 Oct 2000

Vol. 524 No. 3

Written Answers. - Work Permits.

Michael Ring

Question:

176 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will have the immigration section of his Department liaise more effectively with the work permit section of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to enable a visa application to be accepted in an Irish Embassy once a work permit application is completed, rather than the embassy needing the original work permit document to start processing the visa application; if he will direct more staff to the immigrant section to reduce the processing time of visas for non-EEA nationals in view of the staff crisis in the hotel and catering industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22580/00]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

As many nationalities do not require a visa to enter the State, a significant proportion of all non-EEA nationals will only have to apply for a work permit in advance of travelling. In so far as those nationals who require a visa are concerned, I am satisfied there is already good ongoing liaison between my Department, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the Department of Foreign Affairs in relation to the issuing of visas to holders of work permits. My Department will, however, raise the Deputy's suggestion with the other Departments concerned and I will write to the Deputy once the matter has been considered further. I am also pleased to advise the Deputy that additional resources are currently being allocated to the immigration division of my Department.