Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 1 Apr 2003

Vol. 564 No. 1

Written Answers - Working Holiday Visas.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

174 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason the memorandum of understanding between the Irish and Canadian Governments in relation to a working holiday programme for Irish citizens has not been signed by the Government; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that due to the delay on the part of the Government, the programme has been suspended, causing severe difficulties for young Irish people who are now unable to obtain visas to do holiday work in Canada; and if the memorandum of understanding will be signed without delay. [8727/03]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

The preparation of a memorandum of understanding between the Government of Ireland and the Government of Canada concerning a working holiday programme is at an advanced stage. The programme will make it possible for an agreed number of Irish and Canadian young people to visit the other country for an extended period, primarily to holiday but also to engage in employment as an incidental aspect of their holiday in order to supplement their travel.

I do not accept that there has been undue delay in dealing with this matter. When it became apparent that a formal arrangement was required in this area, negotiations commenced on a memorandum of understanding and these have now been satisfactorily concluded. I expect to be in a position to bring this matter to Government for decision in the near future.