Vol. 558 No. 6
48 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to a number of recent statements from trade union leaders suggesting that some employers are grossly exploiting non-EU workers who arrive here on work permits; the steps being taken to prevent such exploitation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24877/02]
I am aware of recent statements from trade union leaders regarding the mistreatment of certain non-EU workers placed in employment here on foot of work permits. Employment rights legislation makes no distinction whatsoever between the rights of non-EU workers and any other workers and as such all workers in Ireland, without exception, are entitled to the same statutory employment rights and protections. In this regard the labour inspectorate of my Department monitors certain employment conditions of the various categories of all workers in Ireland, including non-EU workers. The inspectorate pursues allegations of worker mistreatment and in the event that evidence of non-compliance with the relevant employment rights legislation is found, the inspectorate seeks redress for the individuals concerned and, if appropriate, a prosecution is initiated. The inspectorate operates objectively, fairly, impartially and without any differentiation with respect to nationality.
A policy is in place in my Department whereby the processing of work permit applications for any employer is suspended when the Department becomes aware of any concerns regarding that employer's compliance with the obligations set out in the various employment rights enactments. If there is evidence that particular employers are exploiting non-EU workers, I would ask that these be brought to the attention of the labour inspectorate for investigation and further action.
49 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her plans to act on the recommendation from FÁS in its recent Labour Market Review, that work permits should only be granted for skill gaps instead of for specific job vacancies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24878/02]
The recent FÁS comments on work permit policy were contained in the Irish Labour Market Review 2002 which was prepared by FÁS, at my request, to provide information and analysis about the Irish labour market as an input to and to assist in the development of Government labour market strategies. It is intended that FÁS will publish such a review on an annual basis.
Economic immigration policy is kept under constant review in my Department and account will be taken of the views expressed by FÁS in considering any future changes or modifications to that policy.
