Vol. 552 No. 1
68 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding the agreement on free movement of persons, between the EU and the Swiss Confederation; when the agreement will come into effect here; the date from which it will be unnecessary for Swiss nationals to apply for work permits here; if holders of current work permits will have to reapply; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11307/02]
All the member states of the EU have now ratified the Agreement on Free Movement of Persons between the European Community, its member states and the Swiss Confederation. This will enable the free movement of workers between the member states of the EU and Switzerland, without the need for work permits.
The agreement is expected to enter into force on 1 June next and is subject to a commencement order for the coming into operation of the European Communities and Swiss Confederation Act, 2001, to be made by my colleague the Minister for Foreign Affairs.
In the meantime, work permits, including the renewals of permits are still required.
Question No. 69 answered with Question No. 59.
